Unmothered

On Mother bothering Sunday I realise that although I no longer have a mother, I can share the gifts she gave me

I can embarrass my teenager with my fashion choices

I can be a loving presence with sick children

I can swim with my head out of the water

I can talk to cats on my walk

I can deliver a lengthy sermon to the kids who have grown too old to live at home

I can hand-feed an animal who is in pain

I can argue about politics

I can sing along to corny, nostalgic music

I can read books and impart their wisdom

I can kiss dogs at the dog park and frighten their owners

I can dance in the garden of my dreams

thank you dearest mother