Soon you took those tottering steps
and your independence got its start
and as you walked away from me,
you had with you, my heart.
More time had passed; yet another step
but this time, not with little feet
as the yellow bus drove out of sight,
I stood bewildered in the street.
The next step that you’re taking
is one filled with styles and trends;
the freedom and self-confidence
of going places with your friends.
And you’ll wear an anxious smile
when you first hold the key
and take the steps toward a vehicle
that you'll drive away from me.
Then you'll wear a tasseled cap
and I'll be filled with gratification
as you step in time with classmates
at your high-school graduation.
Then you’ll climb steps to a college class
that could be so far away
that I might get a long distance call
maybe..…every other day.
Then you’ll take the steps into marriage
within those following years
and I’ll be at your wedding
with my handkerchief and tears.
Then you’ll step into parenthood
and I pray I’ll be there, too
as I watch your little children
take their first steps…away from you.
