Dear Matthew

Poem composed for Matthew by his godmother, Sherry Costa Hanlon

This poem was read by Sherry
at Matthew's naming ceremony
Cincinnati, Ohio
June 20, 2003

 
Dear Matthew
So many things I want you to know…
That you are loved wherever you go
Whatever choice you make, whatever path you take,
This love will never waver or fade

I want you to know how truly blessed you are
      to have your two parents
They are so strong and so kind
And their love and wisdom will be your strength
In this world which can often times be cold and unkind
your parents will always be there by your side

I want you to know you have strong family ties
And friends who love you

As I pour these words from my heart to this page
I realize now all our love has been saved.
My earnestness in telling you what you should know
Is replaced by a dawning that came very slow
The fact is Matthew. . . you already know.

You knew all these things because you were born of love
      and to love you return
What takes many a lifetime you’ve already learned
And so to your grandfather Gordon you have flown
To call his kind, gentle strength your home

Though your time was so brief
You spent it so well
You’ve reminded all of us how precious we are
And that love can comfort us in our darkest hour

I wanted you to know all this . . . but you already did.
It shouldn’t surprise me . . .
      after all you are Shelley and Alan’s kid!

Though I may not kiss your cheek
Hold your hand or stroke your hair
Know this, dear godson: I’ll touch you through prayer.
And I’ll cradle you with love for our whole lives through
. . . because that’s what godmothers do.

You are my little angel