the ugly earring

today is my birthday.

it is a special day for you too.

on this day, you labored and fought for my first breath of air. 

on this day, you became a mother

and my story began.

i blew out the candles while you stood in the background

i opened the presents

while you cut the cake and served it to everyone.

i am sorry it took so long, mother

thirty-two years and a child of my own

to finally thank you for your strength and bravery.

on this day you fought a battle,

you carried the pain,

and bore the wounds of childbirth.

on this day, you gave everything

for me.