The Girl I Used To Be

I just read this recently and wanted to post it. I think all too often we (those who choose to stay home and raise children) end up apologizing for our lack of ambition or intelligence or whatever we feel such a choice requires in the eyes of others. I too had dreams that didn't revolve around two beautiful, demanding children, there will be time for those dreams-- now is the time to fulfill this dream....

She came tonight as I sat alone

The girl I used to be.

And she gazed at me with her earnest eye and questioned reproachfully:

Have you forgotten the many plans

And hopes I had for you?

The great career, the splendid fame,

All the wonderful things to do?

Where is the mansion of stately height with all its gardens rare?

The silken robes that I dreamed for you and the jewels in your hair?

And as she spoke, I was very sad, for I wanted her to be pleased with me,

This slender girl from the shadowy past

The girl I used to be.

So gently rising, I took her handand guided her up the stairs

Where peacefully sleeping, my babies lay,Innocent, sweet, and fair.

And I told her that these are my gems,

And precious they are to me,

The silken robe is my motherhood

Of costly simplicity.

And my mansion of stately height is love,

And the only career I know

Is serving each day in these shelteredwalls

For the dear ones who come and go

And as I spoke to my shadowy guest,

She smiled through her tears at me.

And I saw the women that I am now

Pleased the girl I used to be.