As I sit here
Readying myself for your night
I can't help but see you beside me
Your reflection, not that of a young woman,
But of the infant that lit up my day
With a smile and a wink of dimples;
Of the toddeler that beguiled me
With the blink of her eyes and a pout;
Of the little girl who begged for makeup,
Then ran me ragged with tomboyish energy;
Of a young lady regaling me with every injustice
While spouting a wisdom that surpasses her years.
I see the teen who always has time for a hug
And a heartfelt "I love you," even when busy.

As I stare into the glass and see the past,
Your future radiates brightly,
Superimposed by my mind's eye.
Your faith and courage go before you
Pushed by a competitive, yet caring heart,
Tempered by patience, supported by those
Who believe in your beauty of spirit.
And I hold a sense of pride in that beauty
Knowing that I had a small part
In the transformation that is womanhood.