Watching You

I’m watching you, from inside my bed,
as you do my care.
I’m watching you intently,
as you stroke my hair.

I watch you as you pick me up
to hold me in your arms,
And know God gives you strength and grace
to protect me from all harm.

My parents cannot visit,
Their choices have been bad.
Here I am, beginning life,
for that I’m very glad.

It may look like I’m all alone,
I know that seems unfair.
But I have my NICU nurse,
who is always there.

Will I remember my preemie weeks,
spent without a mom and dad?
Or will I feel the divine love of God,
That I always had?

By Jan Riley

(Jan Riley is a member of Holy Spirit Parish in Indianapolis.) †

The Criterion