We are not our mothers, and other useful things to know before breakfast.

Fifty-two

is a scary number.

People die at fifty-two

despite

being loved

and needed

and being cared for.

Fifty-two

is an uncomfortable number.

As your tummy suddenly

does not fit into

your jeans,

and your temper turns into

a solar flare.

Fifty-two

is a humbling number.

As you realise

how far you’ve come,

to the first corner shop

of a journey

across the world.

Fifty-two

is a flourishing number.

As you seep into

yourself,

no longer afraid

of who you’ll find there.

Fifty-two

is a glorious number.

As you embrace

the fullness

of a life 

well-lived.

~Lu