My sister Claudia had her first child, Delilah. She was born of only six months. I remember the first time that I saw her, she was just a tiny little being, and now after five months, she has grown so much. Although she is not my child, I feel like she is the closest thing to that right now. The first time I touched her, in her incubator, her hand and skin were so smoothe that it didn’t feel like I was touching anything at all, she was so tiny and fragile.
The day she finally came home, I carried her for the first time. I saw her there in my arms, as she stared at the light in the living room ceiling, and I wondered what she could possibly be thinking about, but all I could think of myself was how wonderful it felt to finally be able to hold her. I looked at her tiny face and figured I had never seen anything so innocent and beautiful. It brought tears to my eyes just seeing how perfect she looked, and knowing how she would never be this size again, and one day she will no longer be small enough to carry in arms.
This past weekend I carried her for about two hours. I watched her just wondering around the room with her cute little light brown eyes. I watched her as she fell asleep in my arms after being swaddled, and saw the peacefulness in her. Little Delilah, I would think to myself, I hope to see you grow into a beautiful and smart young lady. I hope you remain as sweet as you are now, and that the world treats you well.
I’m sure everyone hopes the best for their children, but this world can be very cruel sometimes. I just hope Delilah continues to grow big and strong as she has until now. She already won the first battle for her life, so I know she will always be a fighter. I see my sister proud of her baby girl, and when I see them, I see a love that cannot be broken, and that love- I know is what keeps this baby healthy and strong.
Little Delilah, I hope the best for you in the years that are to come, and that all the dreams you could ever have in the future, you can make possible. You are a fighter, so I hope you never forget that whatever you want to do, you can. Also, remember that you have a mother who loves you, and a family that will always support you. Follow your heart my darling. The heart can lead to great things, don’t forget that your mother’s heart led to you. May God bless your life, and keep you safe always.
Sincerely,
Heidi