About 29 years ago on this day, I was due to be born in another 12 days,
But the doctor had to go on vacation,
So he did a C-section 10 days early, 2 days from this day, 29 years ago,
And I was born.
How silly.
And laughable.
My sweet mother of frail health had medical issues after my birth,
She could not handle giving birth to another child,
Knowing this, my loving dad said,
“Why would I want another child?
This way our love is not split among many.”
Mum was just happy her child was healthy.

Nearly 30 years ago.
Thanks everything mum and dad.
You loved me, and sheltered me, so much so that though
I want to be a better daughter, I’m at a loss.
Two days to this day, 29 years ago,
You’ve been taking care of me.
I’m sorry I’m unable to give you anything back.
Something as meaningless as that fancy car dad wants to buy,
Or as meaningful as giving more of my time to mum,
Or the grandchild they want to play with,
Something as extra as that extra home in a nice part of town,
Or expensive medical check-ups,
People to walk the dog so you don’t have to do it,
People to drive the car and clean the home once dad retires,
So you don’t have to do it
And can age comfortably,
My dear sweet simple mum of somewhat frail health who tires so easily,
Who worked under stressful, even unsafe conditions
Because she wanted her own income and identity,
Who now strives to make daily life comfortable for dad and me,
And my dear sweet strong dad who does everything for his wife and daughter
So they don’t have to take the trouble to do it themselves,
I’m sorry I eat better than you,
Travel more than you,
And lived thoughtlessly till now,
So wrapped up in my own self,
I didn’t pay attention to you.

29 years ago to this day, plus two days.
I’ve been trying to make up for it lately
But two years are nothing in comparison to eight,
And I’m getting there slowly
Please hold on a little more,
Four-five years till dad retires,
That’s the time I ask,
And for your patience,
With your somewhat thoughtless child.

Love,
February