Mum – You Were There by Andrew Milledge When I first opened my eyes, filling the skies with baby cries, you were there. Kissing away grazed knees and stinging bees, you were there. A reassuring gaze, at school first days, you were there Keeping me sane through teenage pain, you were there. Being life and soul, togetherness, your goal, you were there Hosting parties that rocked 'til at least 5 o'clock, you were there. A great British baker, the perfect homemaker, you were there Giving so much joy for us all to enjoy, you were there As autumn descended, with determination extended, you were there In your final precious hours, with hands holding ours, so gentle, you were there. And then you weren’t there, and I despaired. But your spirit, so loved, so kind is eternal, and within us all, you'll always be there.