I have given birth to many children

From my womb has come generations

Those that rise up in wisdom and knowledge

Curly, wavy, coily and straight haired

Amber, blue, hazel, green and coal colored eyes flecked with gold

Blonde and ginger, brown and black haired

Full of words and smiles that create rainbows and cacophonies of sound

Sweet little hands and whispers of sleep

I have held you in my arms, told you of your worth, wiped your tears

And spoken to your heart

I have given you my name and those of your foremothers and forefathers

Yet, my womb remains empty…

You exist in the deep places inside me, spun down in spirit

I have birthed you. You remain close to my heart even though you cannot be seen

You are part of me, and I of you

You are the longing of my essence

The hope of generations

Though my body has yet to push you through the birth canal,

I have made space for you.

I am a mother in all but name.

It is a name written in my marrow and forged in tears

Though others do not see or understand,

I too, am a mother.

KC, 2020