I stand here with the hands of my mother and grandmother

resting firmly on my shoulders – for they are my guide

            Strong, solid, unwavering, women

 who created the woman I am and continue to guide the woman I will become

I shift slightly making room for the hands of my father and brother – placed lightly on my head

            Steady, calm, gentle – for they are the other half of me and my foundation

A small step forward puts me in lockstep with my sisters, my forever cheerleaders

Their words are firm but kind when I am scared or uncertain

they carry me with them as I carry them with me

Head held high my eyes search for my nieces

who remind me to be humble but determined as I rise

Wrapped in the hugs of my nephews

the pride in their eyes made this all worthwhile

Fully dressed in my armor, I can rise above it all to meet my king

Steadily we stroll forward, his shoulders now supporting me

as I glance back on my foundation occasionally

I walked this journey but never alone,

so on this journey, I can stand on my own 

for those who came before me, have cleared a path

making it possible for me to succeed no matter the task.