You have no way of knowing what I know,
of seeing what I've seen,
of experiencing what I have experienced
If I could,
I would shelter you from the storm
that will be your life
I would shield you from the pain, sorrow, and heartache
that will someday reach you
But I know I don't hold that power
So be free, my child
Leave no stone unturned
Live for the moment, and have no regrets,
knowing that even the biggest mistakes
will help you along the way
I will assist you when I can
But know that one day, you must leave me
and head off into the world to start your own journey
So I hope you will be wise,
and loving, and courageous
Never take for granted the beauty of the rising sun,
or the twinkle of a million stars in the night sky
And follow my lead,
but be true to only you,
for you are the one who will change your world
You, with your bright eyes and wondrous smile
There are so many wonders in store for you.