73 Comments

I just shared your poem, first with my son, then with The Clan, massively expanded through a marriage two years ago. The response was universal, all parties, all ages missing that stage captured so well. I seek both spaces simultaneously, both giving and receiving the support of shoulder and patted back. But I am NOT rattled. I am even more peaceful now, having had both roles, being surrounded by people who have been fully present in those roles. Good God am I a lucky one!

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My first born is extremely introverted and heading off to college in the fall! I am scared to death for her! Not especially relevant to your awesome poem but hey fellas got to vent 😀

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My daughter is only 3.5 months and I just rushed into her nursery to pick her up from a nap after listening to this. Everyone says it goes fast but how can we slow the clock?! This was beautiful.

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Feeling their warm little bodies against your chest, smelling their newness on their heads, patting their backs because we just know that the rhythm is comforting. Can there be anything better? Not to me.

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I still tend to rock while standing in line. Our babies are always imprinted in our flesh

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So evocative. Heard some music I used to rock the babies too and could feel them in my arms.

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Is your shoulder still ready to comfort him?

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Yes! I feel that way constantly. Beautiful.

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Phew. My boys almost 13, and I can still lift him, if he let's me. Beautiful thank you

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This was very clever. Appreciate the misdirection and subtle dry humor! Made me chuckle.

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Aaaawwwww…

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I know that feeling.

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Not a parent but an older sibling with a big age gap. I get a sense of nostalgia remembering that the same brother I used to carry on my back, now carries me on his :)

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He ain't heavyyyy... He's my brother 🌌🧘🏻‍♀️

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