Self-LoVe

I’m unwrapping into the foliage 
of my own blossom.
Petals fall and tear from my stem
though I’m always growing
as another season dawns 
a bud falls off
I cast it away 
determined to sprout anew 
in the summer 
of my annual journey 
of motherhood.
The seasons may change, 
the flower may wilt 
and die to another life.
A hand may pick at me 
and break away the strongholds 
of yesterday.
I may replant myself, 
a new seed for a new season.
I grow steadfast to my roots, 
watered, and nourished 
by the soil I tend
with each passing day 
taking time for myself to rest, 
have fun and rejuvenate.
The words I keep for myself.
You are treasured.
You matter.
I hear you and you are splendid now.

~Cynthia Schaefer

From Mothering Me: Poetry for Moms with Toddlers