When I open my eyes
The brightness of the morning
Tells me I slept late
I listen to the peaceful breathing
Of my sleeping toddler
Curled against my back
For a moment, I try to imagine
Relief
Soon, the weight returns to crush my chest
The sickening sense of dread
Turns my stomach
And despair begins to creep
Into my mind
All I have left is hope, and spirit
All I have left is love
And the memory of
Happiness
recovering motherhood 