Tess

Another line in your forehead daughter

To add to those deepening there

After time you consider wasted

Or at least in its lack of effect

Half wasted despite all trying.

Not your fault indeed the situation,

Encouragement not repeated,

Money withdrawn, words without action,

Denied support by some who

Blame not themselves but others.

How I remember you early

A child just born, heart-warming,

Complete, fine-skinned, not crying,

And then a quiet child, ready

Perhaps too ready for self blame

Though now a quality helps you

Gain respect of those below

The position you hold. Such pleasure

It is to see you now not proud

Of what you have achieved and do

Although you should be proud

As I am proud of you.

©Terry Hodgson2020