A Poem for Moms: Notes

Here is what Patch Poetry maestro Jeff Burkhart has to say about Ronna Leon and her poem Notes: Ronna Leon is approaching the end of her tenure as Benicia's Poet Laureate. Her stewardship of the position for the past year has been characterized by the good humor and grace that distinguish Ronna as a person and an artist.

This is my first choice and I think that it is appropriate on Mother's Day because it speaks to the fragility of life and the mission of Mothers everywhere. (Also Ronna has been the Matriarch of Benicia poetry for this past year.)

Notes by Ronna Leon
The 30's song brings Mother back
to stand, in memory, beside the bed.
A woman younger,
more fragile than I knew,
trying to see it through.
"I can't give you anything
but love, Baby,"
a falsetto lullaby.
Still a difficult baby,
but in my own pale Mother's dress,
I sing her song to bring us home
through every Depression.
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