american greetings

i have the hallmark kind of mother’s day

my mom is living and well

i have two healthy children

blessed beyond measure

but i know

for every man woman child who hugs mom

there is one who longs for just one more chance

for every woman who watches her children sleeping
there is one who cries in anguish over a lost one

for every woman who holds a newborn today

there is one who wonders why she can’t conceive

for every man woman child who takes a walk with mom today

there is one sleeping in an ICU waiting room day in day out

i hear their cries

echoing off the mountains

there is no hallmark card for them

bring them solace today, oh Lord

I love the words in Isaiah,

promising us a savior who will:

...bestow on them a crown of beauty

instead of ashes,

the oil of gladness

instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise

instead of a spirit of despair.

They will be called oaks of righteousness,

a planting of the LORD

for the display of his splendor.

Linking to Women Living Well, Moments of Whismy, and the run-a-muck