As mothers
as women
as warriors
we choose
and we
compromise
our hearts
are often
torn
and we
bleed
in all
directions.
The milk
and blood
that flow
become
rivers
of love
of loss
of life
become
the current
that carries
the boats
of
all the
other
women
as they
in their choosing
journey also
toward the
ocean
of their
greatest heart
their
most pure
exalted self.
Go forth
beauty-full women
Set sail
sovereign in your ship
and may you remember
to trust
the wind
in her still moments
to respect
the rhythm
of her reckless tides
and may your
faith
in following
her call
through the cavernous night
be met
as you stand tall
heart open
holding still
the guilded horizon
of your every dream
deep and
knowing
the sweet water
will come
will carry you
home
(c) Chandu Bickford 2018