from the memory of earlier lives

to be born as my offspring

again and again,

I wondered

how long I would have to wait,

fasting, worshipping, observing vows,

listening patiently to doctor and saint,

and praying fervently with folded hands

for you to re-incarnate.

Waiting patiently

for what looked like an eternity

I hardly realised

that I was blessed

and you had quietly settled

here inside me,

till those tell-tale signs -

the changing moods,

the gentle twinges of sweet pain,

an appetite playing hide and seek,

a desire to rest and to sleep,

and so many dreams of my little one -

caught up with me

and proudly announced your arrival.

(From “Enchanting World of Infants”)