Ahakoa whati te manga, e takoto

ana anō te kōhiwi

(Although the branch is broken off, the trunk remains – Māori proverb)

I want to tell you I see you

All of you

Your backbone of steel, your front tender and soft

 

I want you to know I see your courage

Your care

Amidst the trauma. Neglect

The abandonment

 

That I deeply admire your hope and your yearning

For better

 

I see your consistency, reliability.

Your hard work

I want you to know, they will triumph

 

That even though you will not live the life you imagined

All will be well

 

Remember, dear one, to look carefully at this great earth

Breathe in its wonder.

Hold it with awe.

 

You are part of it all

You belong

 

The watchful mountains

The attentive trees

The cleansing oceans

 

They're there for you.

Never forget your guardians

Your companions

 

Ready to embrace you in your loss

Nurture you in your grief

Give you fortitude in your otherness

 

And I want you to think of me

Part of it all too.

Accompanying you on your journey.

 

With my loving arm around you.

My comforting touch.

My assurance that I will never leave your side.

 

You see? You are never alone.

 

Aue! Aue!

Kia kaha, my young one

Janine Ford