"I'm Not Sure Where You're Going" by Elise

I’m not sure where you’re going

What do you want to be when you grow up?

What a stupid question, the expression on your face said,

and I agreed.

You came into the world, eyes on fire like onyx, and a soul to match.

Quiet observation of all around you, me, us, them, all of it, you were taking it in, processing it in that little head of yours.

Comfortable with ladybugs, Belgium horses, kittens’ needle sharp claws, goats with spiky horns, great dane dogs taller than your tiny 3 year old self.

I hesitated to push you into the world, you turned at the door of the school with confidence telling me, you can go home Mom, and you walked bravely into the future.

You made comfortable visiting babies, unsure toddlers, insecure little boys, curious parents, and leaders in the community, all before you even reached the 5th grade.

You could have moved ahead without waisting time as a senior, but insisted that it was important to have the full high school experience, and did not let them rush you.

My heart broke and I cried all the way home after settling you into your dorm room. You only told me months later how afraid you were to let me leave, but you never let it show.

The photo shows a confident young woman, in red heals, black graduation gown with ropes indicating "graduated with honors", degree in hand, rental lease signed, jobs offers to choose from, life partner in the wings.

I should have known, from that first moment I saw those onyx eyes,

you are going far.