Steady stream of commands then
hissing, suctioning
machines. Filtration of fear all around.
No one said a word to me. No eye contact.
I closed my eyes, didn’t ask, didn’t look,
mumbled, Please God, before oblivion.
I could see you from time to time
Through panels of glass and the hum
of your breathing machine. Lights blinding.
You were too vulnerable and dependent
on machines, wires, and tape.
Finally you
were brought into my darkened
room. The blue
clad nurses an entourage
coming to
see the reunion of mother and miracle child.
You looked
strong, wondrously made
ten fingers,
ten toes, all the right appendages.They handed you to me.
I engulfed you in my arms, couldn’t see
for tears, but I found your precious cheek.
That kiss has lasted my lifetime.
