Prepared

by Cheryl Merrick

She remembers
     her feelings as a child,
     and now makes efforts
     to help the class feel secure.

Remembering the challenges
     of raising her son,
     the older woman
     wisely counsels her friend.


Experiences,
     one by one,
     softening the heart
     and giving understanding.

Experiences,
     tempering strength,
     enabling support to be given
     and challenges met.

Slowly the soul
     is being prepared
     to grow.