Love Poem: Letter To Mummy
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Written by: Nwando Obianyor

Letter To Mummy

Remember, mummy…

Remember that I am a gift from God, the richest of all blessings;
Do not attempt to mould me in your image, or my dad’s, siblings, friends or neighbours; 
I am an individual and should be permitted to be myself.

Remember not to crush my spirit when I fail;
Don’t compare me with others who outshine me.

Remember to discipline me with firmness and reason;
Do not let your anger throw you off balance;
If I know you’re fair, you’ll not lose my respect or my love.

Remember that each child needs two parents;
When you side with me against dad, 
I’ll have feelings of guilt, confusion and insecurity.

Remember not to hand me everything my little heart desires;
Otherwise, I will never know the thrill of earning or the joy of saving.

Remember not to make threats in anger, 
Or impossible promises when you’re in a generous mood;
To me, your word means everything;
When I cannot believe in you or dad, I’ll have difficulty believing in anything.

Remember that there is dignity in labour; 
Whether performed with callous hands that shoved coal,
Or with skilled fingers that manipulate surgical instruments.
Let me know that a useful life is a blessed one, 
And that a life of ease and pleasure-seeking is empty and meaningless.

Remember not to try to protect me from every small blow and little disappointments;
Adversity strengthens character and makes us compassionate;
Trouble is the great equalizer, let me learn it.

Remember to teach me to love GOD and fellowmen;
And, mum, please, don’t send me to church/mosque or fellowship,
Take me there!

Thank you mum for reading my letter through.                     
I am sure you know I love and appreciate you.
But, in case, some of the words sting, 
And, you’re now not sure of my heart,
I love you, mum, I really do!

From your child…