Empty Arms

I held my baby only once,
touched her dewy cheek,
heard her cry as she
chewed her tiny fist.
Then the doctor brought
news I could not bear,
that she was no longer here.
I was left with hungry arms
which cried from emptiness.

I last held two grandchildren
in my arms, one on each side,
though I knew not it was the last.
If I had known, I would have
held them ever closer, and
I would never have let them go.
But I didn't know, and now
I am still left with empty arms
which ache with loneliness.

I thought I'd found another child,
one who wanted me for hers.
I dreamed that we could be
together in life and laughter,
but I guess it's not to be.
I've never gotten to hold her,
not one hug has been given;
so why do my arms feel empty
when never filled with her?