As Bombs Fall on a Maternity Hospital in Ukraine
As bombs fall on a maternity hospital in Ukraine
my grandbaby snugs in my arms
for a few more moments
before flying away with her mama.
They journey from Alaska to catch
the baby of a dear friend entering
motherhood on her own.
Today, fortune determines that bombs
fall elsewhere. Babies and bombs
in one breath, and yet
these women hold faith and courage,
offer children to this broken world.
I battle images of their bravery ending
in blood and fire.
My heart
tightens before my grandma arms empty.
Determined to bear witness,
my sorrow and gratitude balance
just enough to let her go.