Sun has set. Moon has arrived.

Slowing down.

Climbing under blankets, pillows plumped and primed.

Soft knock and that dearest of words, “Mama?”

“Yes Love?” “Talk?” “Sure”

Reshuffling pillows up. Rubbing eyes open.

Patting blankets. Climbing up.

“Mama, what do I do?”

Oh, how I wish I had the answers.

Father, what do I do?

You have all the answers.

Weary beyond words. Listening between yawns.

“No, it’s fine Love. Keep talking.”

Never slumbers nor sleeps.

Father, you are listening, right?

“Why, Mama?”

I don’t know, Love. 

Why, Lord?

Father, I don’t understand.

In those moments, peace descends

Not answers.

It’ll be okay. He’s got us.

Hands together, head to head.

Bowed, eyes closed in hope.

Closer than we were before

Because we face it together.

Lord, closer to you through it all

You’ve never left us, ever.

Those late-night moments

Equal parts laughter and tears

Thoughts, wishes, and questions

Spoken and held

Tighter bonds

Tougher and stronger together

Heart-filled honesty

Love wide-open

Mama moments

Sun risen or set

Lord, stronger leaning into You

Asking questions, waiting for answers

Held closer by You

Stronger with You

Heart-healing honesty

Love lavishly given

Abba moments.