It only took her nearly 50 years
(but that’s okay – I didn’t hold my breath)
to realize “Mom” is not what she appears
to be, in culture, stories, fairytales.
(I never set my course to garner cheers,
but I remembered mother-fails and hurt,
and acted as a backstop to careers
my children chose, supportive unto death).
Her thanks are a surprise not in arrears.

(Magic 9)