And my eyes welled up with tears.
I feel oh so guilty.
For I have been saying 'No, I can't just yet for I have this and that to do' ... to Vai's simple daily request.
What was his simple request, you may wonder.
He only asked to play Monopoly.
He simply wanted to spend some twosome playtime with his Mommy.
...
And so as I type this post, I made a promise to myself,
Tomorrow, I will say 'Yes, ... come and let's play Monopoly!'
I will hug and kiss him more.
I will hold him tight and tell him how much he means to me.
For I do not want to look back one day, and wish how I should've said 'Yes' to more little things he asked me.
...
"To My Grown-Up Son"
My hands were busy through the day,
I didn’t have much time to play
The little games you asked me to,
I didn’t have much time for you.
I’d wash your clothes; I’d sew and cook,
But when you’d bring your picture book
And ask me, please, to share your fun,
I’d say, “A little later, son.”
I’d tuck you in all safe at night,
And hear your prayers, turn out the light,
Then tiptoe softly to the door,
I wish I’d stayed a minute more.
For life is short, and years rush past,
A little boy grows up so fast,
No longer is he at your side,
His precious secrets to confide.
The picture books are put away,
There are no children’s games to play,
No goodnight kiss, no prayers to hear,
That all belongs to yesteryear.
My hands once busy, now lie still,
The days are long and hard to fill,
I wish I might go back and do,
The little things you asked me to.
by Alice E. Chase (March 8, 1986)
