For Rachel

By Louise Helps

Third Place

“Would you like a boy or girl?” and I reply

All blushing, body blooming like a rose,

“It doesn’t matter much to me; all I

Want is ten fingers and ten fine strong toes,

A healthy baby with a lusty cry.”

Such strange conditions, idly placed upon

Our love for children borne beneath our hearts.

As if we would not love a little one

That’s formed awry, confusion in its parts,

Or treasure legs we know will never run.

Can you not stay, my baby? We’ll repair

Your damaged body, if you will but live.

I fold myself in faith, hide from despair.

Remain awhile—we have so much to give

Each other, so much joy to share.

I mourn each problem but do not forget

The spirit held here by your mortal clay.

I know that all will be restored, and yet

Beg for this sooner—can’t it be today?—

And weep for hopes all shattered, dreams unmet.

You’re such a welcome burden, so I cry

To our shared Father, He who understands

And cares for me and loves you more than I

Know how. Your fragile life rests in his hands.

And I? I’ll rear you now … or by and by.

Painting by Robert Powell