to a child...

Just for this morning, I am going to smile when I see your face and laugh
when I feel like crying.

Just for this morning, I will let you choose what you want to wear, and
smile and say how perfect it is.

Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you
up and take you to the park to play.

Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you
teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer
off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles..

Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble
when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck, and I will buy you one
if he comes by.

Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when
you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.

Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't
stand over you trying to fix them.

Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story
about how you were born and how much I love you.

Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.

Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the
porch and count all the stars.

Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my
favorite TV shows.

Just for this evening when I run my finger through your hair as you pray,
I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever
given.

I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their
missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's
graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital
rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside
that they can't handle it anymore.

And when I kiss you good night I will hold you a little tighter, a little
longer. It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask him for nothing,
except one more day..............

(from an e-mail)