On Mothers day
Sunlight glints on frosty roof slates.
A Seagull launches from a chimney stack.
A line of pink foot geese spread along the top of a cloud
Part of the weather system and defying the wind.

This is the day my Father was born.
In a dream last night, I consult him.
Tripping through a canvas tent curtain
To where he sits with papers spread out on the floor.
He advises well. Keep it simple. Keep it small.

This is the day my husband left
Forever forewarned as a difficult date in my diary.
And in the dream, my Mother takes her own life,
As did her Father before her.

On this day life gives me
Gifts of affection and
Undying support
From Women past yet present.
And from the female present. Baton passed.
Who present candles and flowers
Give blessings and
Unceasing love
From a womb with unfathomable depths.
I thank you sweet ladies
For all your Mothering
Strong like iron and
Tender like a feather.