There are few clearer breakings in...

There are few clearer breakings in 

of otherness than parenthood.

The blood and smell and frailty of life, 

when caring becomes a constant expectation 

instead of something 

one feels good about on weekends.

I realized I wasn't sure we'd all survive. 

So I would wake and listen 

or scrutinize the monitor 

for signs our oldest was still breathing. 

And I started to be grateful for the person 

our daughter's presence formed me into.

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