I Am There

'For you are never alone'

On the day you burst forth into this bright new world I was there. I held your tiny hand and vowed to never let you go.

When you fell off your bike and lay in the dirt, bleeding and crying in pain and frustration I was there. I pulled you to your feet and embraced you, comforting you with my words and my touch.

When you lay curled in a ball in a dark corner of your room while your parents screamed at each over, saying they didn't love each other anymore and you wondered if it was your fault I was there. I put my arm around you and let you cry into my shoulder.

When you stood beaming on the stage when you got the award for good citizenship I was there. I smiled up at you from the audience, proud of my child that has served me so amiably.

When you were stealing liquor from your Mother's liquor cabinet I was there. I frowned at you with disappointment and then smiled as you put the bottle back on the shelf.

When you decided to break up with your boyfriend because he kept trying to pressure you into having sex with him I was there. I stood behind you with my hands on your shoulders, giving you the strength to resist temptation.

When you walked down the aisle towards the man I chose for you before your conception I was there. The man also saw me as I placed your hand in his and smiled endearingly as I gave my blessing.

When you gave birth to the expression of your great love in my name I was there. I held her tiny hand in my own and kissed your cheek and hers, welcoming her to my family, asking you to raise her to also know my presence.

When your sins became too numerous to be forgiven I was there. I bore your punishment because I loved you too much to let you suffer. I took the cat and felt the steel that tore through my hands and feet and held me as a spectacle of shame before I wept and breathed my last breath.

And when it comes your time to leave this world I am there. I welcome you with open arms into my kingdom so that I may be with you and love you for all eternity.