What surprises me when I see her 6 weeks later
Not the mock shyness as she stands in my doorway, eyeing me.
She asked to see me.
Not the slender length of her limbs.
She’s four; she might have grown.
Not the wild flare of her colorful skirt as she twirls around.
She is still all energy.
Not the hand-knitted heavy socks defying August heat in blue plastic shoes.
She has her own style.
Not the shameless request for food as her mother sighs, “I just tried to feed her.”
She knows where I hide the treats.
Not even the soft scratchiness of her newly-shaved hair.
I have seen the pictures.
What surprises me is the heat of her head as she tucks her whole body into my embrace;
What surprises me is the sheer hot truth of her.
Today, after nearly 6 weeks away, I got to see my friend’s child for the first time since she started chemo. She is doing well & the chemo is doing its job. There is a long journey ahead, to be sure, but right now it is marked by optimism. Much of our visit was the same as always; much of it was not. When they left, I couldn’t stop thinking of her and chose to write this.
Persistence and Pedagogy 
I’m so thankful that there is optimism to light the way ahead. Your piece showcases the essence of this dear child–her “sheer hot truth.” Beautiful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks. She’s a bundle of energy!
LikeLike
This is a beautiful piece that you should save for her for when she’s all well and grown up!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I like that idea. I’ll set it aside for when she’s older and this is all a distant memory.
LikeLike
So much emotion here! I’m glad the chemo is doing it’s job. I’m glad you had treats for her. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
She went straight for them, too – after refusing most of her lunch. Cancer sure hasn’t changed her personality.
LikeLike
Beautiful! Glad she is still HER.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Me, too. And long may it last!
LikeLike
The power of this poem is not only its structure; its the power of love in every word. Beautiful. I remember when you wrote about her earlier this year. I’m so glad there is some progress. Hugs and prayers.
LikeLike