I was thinking about Mom the other morning

This one will go in the new poetry collection. It is written as a song. I am singing it in my head.

The Woman at the Upright Piano

Verse 1
I can see you sittin’ there at the upright piano
The songs of your soul at your fingertips
You’re the angel alto of the old sanctuary
The hymns of old dancin’ on your lips

Chorus
You’re the person that I want to be
The one always lookin’ out for me
You’re the hero of my youth
You’re my True North, you’re my truth

Verse 2
I can see you standin’ strong underneath the strain
Of a life that takes more than it gives
I can see you are the wall on which he leans
I can see you are the one for whom he lives

I can see you in the kitchen in your faded dress
Whippin’ up dinner like a short-order cook
Cleanin’ up after us, ‘cause we made a mess
I can see you standin’ there—I don’t have to look

Chorus
You’re the person that I want to be
The one always lookin’ out for me
You’re the hero of my youth
You’re my True North, you’re my truth

Verse 3
I can see you on the bleachers while I’m playin’ ball
My proud Momma, no thought for dignity
Yellin’ out loud, “Son, hit that ball!”
Man, that meant the world to me

Verse 4
I can see you in the pew while I preach
Your smile says, “Son, I’m so proud of you!”
I try my best, but I just can’t reach
The level of love that you do

Chorus
You’re the person that I want to be
The one always lookin’ out for me
You’re the hero of my youth
You’re my True North, you’re my truth

Verse 5
I can see you lyin’ there in your Sunday best
Goin’ nowhere in that pretty dress
I kiss your drawn cheek, but you’re already gone
You’re up there with Dad
And, Mom, I’m sad…but I’m also glad
That you’re finally home

Chorus
You’re the person that I want to be
The one always lookin’ out for me
You’re the hero of my youth
You’re my True North, you’re my truth