Dear Nathan

(A sonnet for my foster-to-adopt son)

Dear Nathan,

When the State asked what I would offer you,
I did not mention my beautiful home,
Show the interest your trust will accrue,
Or name the fine schools to which you could go.
No. I said, I offer him commitment,
I will be the person who never leaves:

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Faced with his anger, I will not relent;
Faced with his doubts, I will always believe.
I will not teach the joys of happiness,
Rather, the contentment of a kind heart.
And, each night, I will tell him, I am blessed
To live a life in which you are a part.
Yes, for you, I only make offers of
The one thing I can guarantee--my love.

Love,

Mary
(April 2002)