I have enjoyed writing since I was in primary school. I first took a particular interest in poetry, penning rhyme and freeform verse as well as journalling in my teens and twenties. I enjoy being out in nature, singing, cooking and gardening, language, Irish dance, playing piano and small craft projects. In this season where I have a small child, there isn’t a whole lot of time for writing, but I am working towards a published work one day.
Two strong supports stripped away in one day;
Our world crumbled soon after postpartum elation;
This little babe just a few weeks old-
Blissfully unaware of all he had lost.
An incredible train of hope came through;
Meals and calls, baby walkers and more-
All help received- nothing too small;
This bundle of joy brought healing balm.
He continues to bless us day by day;
A reminder that surprises can surpass our plans;
Not all in this world has yet gone bad
We treasure every moment we have.
© M.R.Patterson 28.12.23
There’s something to be said for having a do-over. Almost twelve years ago, I gave birth to my firstborn in the same birthing suites where I will be returning to in the next three months. Today’s appointments in that area of the hospital made me realise that I still have some healing to do. E-man’s birth was nothing short of traumatic. Up until today, I felt like I couldn’t return to a similar scenario and be able to cope. As the midwife read through the birth notes, I learnt that E-man’s life was in danger and that is why everything happened so fast in the end, not favouring my comfort but solely focussing on restoring that baby heartrate to normal. Today I have a strong and thriving tween who will never know the extent of what I went through. I felt proud knowing that my pain meant he had no lasting damage. I knew, for the first time today, that the obstetrician had the ultimate good in mind, even though at the time, it felt like he didn’t look after me as much as I had hoped. Today I navigated the maze of corridors alone, feeling empowered and that I could get through the pain that is to come. I saw a cute image of my baby in 3D and treasured all those precious fetal movements so much more than before. In a few short weeks I will have my do-over. I’m not going to let my last labour be an unpleasant one. I will focus on the gift of life which is soon to be in my arms, thankful that he is strong, perfectly formed and ready to meet the world.
Three years of waiting-
The day is finally here!
Taking off and flying north
To see those we hold dear.
Children beyond excited;
Their very first plane flight-
Our gladness overflows –
We will all sleep well tonight.
© M. Patterson 28.2.23
There were no options; peace unattainable-
I was surrounded by layers of brick;
Human ideas were not quite enough-
No alternative for me to pick.
Watching and waiting, I asked the hard questions,
Pushed through each layer till I saw the light;
I know in my heart some things are worth fighting for
And it takes time for day to replace the night.
© M.R.Patterson 2.2.23
She Hath Wings