Book of Poetry

A Job Never Done

Eight things on the checklist as you're walking out the door.
Not enough time in the day to finish everything, you're sure.
Get kids to school, a grocery trip, babysit the neighbor's child.
Prepare a snack for after school. Try not to be driven wild.
The kids are home. "How was your day?" Four answers shouted back.
Then they sit down to work on homework, but still you get no slack.
It's a whirlwind of answering questions, cleaning, and dinner prep.
The kids want to go out to play and dad's not home yet.
Dinner keeps you on your toes, make sure it doesn't burn.
And good luck doing the dishes with whichever kid has a turn.
Dad is home, but he is tired. It's been a long day.
Work was really frustrating, and things weren't going his way.
Even after the kids are asleep, the day isn't quite over.
It's time to talk to dad again as you slip under the covers.
And gradually you fall asleep only to get out of bed
When you hear your child crying. There's vomit next to her head.
And so it goes, up all night long to care for your child dear.
In the early morning their fever breaks, alleviating your fears.
Frankly, you're exhausted, but today is a new day.
And everything starts over whether you like it or not anyways.
The job of a mother is never done, but the most rewarding of all.
And eventually your kids will be there for you, when you're the one to fall.