If I knew then what I know now
I would have better understood
That you always wanted the best for me
And you did the best you could

It may not have seemed so at the time
But I knew how fortunate I was
To have a mother who was always there
And loved me without cause

I sometimes made things hard for you
My heart feels such regret
I didn't know the hurt I caused
And the times I made you fret

I wonder if I thanked you enough
For the times you were by my side
I hope I expressed my gratitude
For love that was never denied

It's too late for a lot of things
And I know it doesn't seem fair
That I sometimes took you for granted
I assumed you'd always be there

I hope you knew that all along
How very much we cared
Your husband and your children
Recipients of the love you shared

For all the times I didn't say it before
I now want to make it clear
With all my heart and all my soul
I love you, mother dear

Kathleen McCoy Eldridge©
April 7, 2006
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