Walk of Life

By Amy Jo Baldoni-McClain in honor of her mother, Gertrudis Josephina Maria DeBock Baldoni. Birthdate: December 21, 1943

Little girl hanging upside down from the bridge,
blonde ponytail on the side of your head,
unbeknownst to you what lies ahead,
Do you remember losing your shoes?

Young woman crossing the sea,
a new world to behold,
Ellis Island and the Statue of Libery,
You grand adventure has just
begun, Will you dance for me?

First wife, then mothers,
the eyes of youth now protector,
single steps are joined by three,
alone you shall walk no more,
but as a family.

A new generation to behold,
blonde hair, blue eyes,
a baby girl with feet so small;
this youngest pair you'll gently guide,
as you've done with those before,
your legacy unfolds.

When your hair turns grey,
and your step slows down,
I'll hold your hand, as you've held mine,
and gently guide the way,
Do you remember my first steps?

The walk continues on...