These Are My JOTtings...

Rhyme Royal: "The Days of Growing Up”

The days of growing up have cadence rare.
They start with nights and days of baby's cries.
We shuffle sleepy steps to show we care.

The parent longs for rest and daily sighs.
This slowest pace feels long no one denies.

These cherished mem'ries seemed so long back then,
but years now past could wish for one again.

The days of growing up see toddled feet.
They start and then they fall and start again.
We hold their hand and help as they repeat.

The wayworn parent hopes some peace to win.
They blink and then they long for days back when.

Invest we must the strength of days of youth
to bring our youth to live in lasting Truth.

The days of growing up see start of school,
when someone bears the cost of teaching skills
to souls, who choose to live as wise or fool.

The cost of living parents foot the bills
in hopes that progeny will have wise wills.

But Time will quickly pass and then we'll know
returned investment through adults they show.

"O, Dear One, now I give to you my best
that when you're grown you'll walk so strong and true.
"I pray you'll thrive and pass each mighty test.

"My love and prayers will walk each day with you.
"Be tough and tender 'til your days are through.

"I love you with my heart in fullest pride.
"When grown you're still my little girl inside!"

Dedicated to Jade Amber Jewel
as she starts going through her teen years.
I love you and I'm proud of you!

For hippychick
By Jay O'Toole
on June 5th, 2017