For Niall
Uncoupled now
But for an umbilical cord
Tangled with promise
Still beating. In both directions.
Deliciously plump
Basted in vernix
Slippery
As a young seal.
Compelled to protect you
Shield you from this new reality
Buffer the sensory onslaught
Swaddle you in the familiar.
Colostrum leaks
Drop by glistening drop
My heart taps out
Our muffled Morse:
Lub dub, lub dub, lub dub.
- © British Journal of General Practice, 2007.