For Johnathan, Jubilee and April Joy

What are these tugs of heart

these tears of longing

that fill my heart this morning

as I listen to my favorite music

and sip my coffee?

Thoughts and memories

faces etched on my heart

echoes of laughter and song

that fill my heart

and soul

They are prayers

that flood my being

for the children

I birthed into this world

who have flown from this nest

Such love and joy they bring to me

even in their absence.

And this morning I sit

and cherish and hold each one

in my heart.