Birthday

So very different...
This year, than last.
I'm standing alone, facing the year ahead.
Before, I had what I thought was a strong hand in mine as we walked into the future...
Together.

No more together.
Alone.

Funny how much difference a year makes.
My children's arms are linked with mine, but my hand is empty.
No strong hand grasping mine.
Yet, it is open. 
It is strong.

I have such wonderful memories...
Built on sand.
But they were wonderful.

The pain is birthing the new.

Birth ... day