Stairway of Life

Stairs, when young were fun
adventurous as we crawled, then
ran up oh so fast
at four, I tumbled downstairs
it was my first memory

funny thing about
stairs, how they take us up and
down we go again
it’s kind of like life, you know
there are ascents and descents

taking the first steps
is such a challenge to do
also, to observe
cajoling along the way
making sure they climb safely

once they are alone
taking their own steps, choices
going up and down
how we want to be there and hold
hands out like we’re banisters

letting them go free
is one of the toughest things
but oh, so vital
to watch their independence
wishing they would hold your hands

holding them in hearts
keeping watch and being there
just enough to show
they have got this, and they know
you are going to be there

then there comes a time
when you’re not so much around
and they’re on their own
then you trust that all you’ve done
is enough and hope it’s true

and before you know
they are helping someone else
crawling up those stairs
holding hands and guiding them
it’s the circle of dear life

when you are the one
who needs help as you ascend
trusting they will be
holding you close in their hearts
and the world moves at your pace

you will know the life
as the descent comes for sure
where the light still shines
from the glow of your most dear
as you make that final climb