First breaths taken, gentle cries,  
under watchful parents’ eyes.  
The first sweet taste of mother's milk  
she cradles skin as soft as silk.  
Tiny fingers reach and curl,  
as a new life greets this changing world.

Unsteady steps lead to tumbles down,  
tear-stained cheeks and a fading frown;  
Bruised knees bleeding on the ground,  
their brave face crumpling at the sound.  
Kiss the hurt and dry those tears,  
hug away the pain and fears.

Playground skirmishes leave a trace,
young hearts grapple with their place,  
as games and friendships shape their days,  
exploring life in myriad ways.  
Reading tales and counting stars,  
as time slips swiftly through youthful hours.

Changes come in the undertow,  
As pre-teen tempests start to blow.  
Mirrors now become their cage,  
with self-doubt writing every page.  
Finding paths through storms within,  
as adolescent shifts begin.

Teenage years bring deeper thought
and independence fiercely sought.  
Screaming words they don’t quite mean,  
piercing hearts of parent and teen.  
Growing pains lead to hearts that yearn,  
and life's harsh lessons left to learn.

To guide them through each perilous phase,  
and love them through their changing days.  
Watch them sleep like years before,  
until their world stops outside your door.  
Time slips too quickly through growing hands,  
leaving a void that no one understands.

©️Lizzie Bevis