My Mama Once Told Me - Hala Durra

My Mama Once Told Me

by Hala Durra

My mama once told me That I shouldn’t shy away From the spotlight That I deserve. That’s why she signed me up For choir.

My mama raised me To be big and strong, In no need of any man To help me live. That’s why she pushed me To go to basketball practice In kindergarten.

My mama showed me That the only way To work yourself up Is for you to do the work And not someone else. That’s why she never helped me With my homework before I tried to do it myself.

My mama said to me That climbing the ladder of success Takes two legs And one determined mind. That’s why she made me write down My dreams and goals on magic paper.

My mama guided me To always look for the light

Because no space is only filled with complete utter darkness. That’s why she sprung open my curtains Every morning.

My mama warned me About things that can make me weak, Like knee scabs and heartaches. That’s why she would always tell me To make sure I have a band-aid with me When she’s driving me to practice.

My mama assured me That no matter how Bruised my heart is, It can heal itself. And she made sure to always extend herself to me with open arms And ears ready to listen.

My mama told me “Don’t take candy from strangers, But thank them for their kindness.” And she modeled that by always Saying hi to the beggar on the street.

My mama taught me To forget the mistake, But remember the lesson. That’s why I never got grounded, But I was always expected To go to her, Having reflected on what I’ve done.

My mama embedded in me A lesson;

Do what makes you happy Because these days Aren’t coming back.

Ruofei shang