The Momma Clan

In the reflection of me, I behold layers time cannot remove—

a daughter grown too quickly,

a sister who had a child before she became one,

a teacher who invested her heart in every room,

and a poet who sewed words into resilience.

This face has experienced early loss—my mother’s absence resonating in all milestones.

But it smiles because it learned to mother from yearning.

It has survived heartbreak, navigated roles, and stood up with chalk in hand and hope in heart.

Students became my mirror as well—reflecting love, trust, and things I never taught but learned.

I no longer look for the perfect woman I once wanted to be.
I see her now, complete in her wholeness and wounds—
Still soft. Still strong. Still shining!!

-Sujata Maggoo