What matters most

I could walk for hours in the most scenic of settings but your smile will always be the best view.⠀
Even though it may be short lived,⠀
Even though I hardly see it some days,⠀
It is a beauty like no other.⠀

I could enjoy the finest of wines and cheeses but the left over crusts you offer me will always taste best.
Even though they are rock hard and covered in slober,⠀
Even though they do not fill me up, ⠀
They signify your love for me.⠀

I could sit in nature for hours listening to her peaceful soundtrack but hearing you laugh is the best sound I will ever hear.⠀
Even though it is sometimes at my expense,⠀
Even though it may only be the break between cries,⠀
It is the best medicine.⠀⠀

I could spend years looking for the perfect jewel but the sparkle in your eye is the jewel no money can buy.⠀
Even though I won’t always be the first to see it,⠀
Even though others will try and dull it,⠀
It is priceless.⠀

I could grind away to reach all of my career goals but hearing you say “I love you mum” will always give me the best sense of fulfilment.⠀
Even though there is no certificate,⠀
Even though you may not always say it,⠀
Once in a lifetime is enough.⠀

I could seek validation from everyone else about my parenting but you crying for me is the only validation that matters.⠀
Even though it frustrates me sometimes, ⠀
Even though it makes me extremely tired,⠀
You matter most.⠀

I love you my child.