Gift of Life

Such beauty, such joy, such love divine,
Reflected in the eyes of the new born you call 'mine'.
Such wonder, such overflowing joy, such amazing peace,
In the moments after the trauma of birth has ceased.
For here is the true gift of life nestled in your arms,
The one you are to protect and keep safe from harm.
Helpless is the babe you cradle and keep snug,
The child already warmed and touched by your tender hug.
Those minute fingers clinging onto yours to reassure that in this new world (s)he belongs,
Ears listening for the sound of your love's lullaby songs.
A gift of such value you now must treasure,
So that what you give will bring her/him immeasurable pleasure.
So now we offer up a prayer for this child of yours,
That hers/his will be a life which causes your spirit(s) to soar.
And that you will have the wisdom to bring her/him up well
So that of your goodness (s)he will forever tell.