Mother’s love, not smother love

Mother’s love,
not smoth’ring love
that holds too tight
to hide from harm,
shield from alarm
(warm hugs are right,
needed and good);

throughout awkward phases
be quick to give praises;
share and prepare
for the move to elsewhere,
leaving the nest,
and facing a test –
experienced instruction,
and good explanation:
thus, loving affection
gives fore-armed protection;
encourage right confidence,
but not silly negligence,
watching them stumble,
and taking a tumble,
ready to soothe,
but speaking the truth,
respected, respecting,
and never neglecting
to pray every day.