Only Child

He has the smoothest skin, like chubby ivory
Two tiny hands, one gurgling, lusty voice.
He lies alone in the safety of his bassinet,
Waving his arms as Dad tickles his tummy.

A closer look reveals a glint of memory in
Dad's gray eyes, a trace of grief in his chuckle.
It has been six months, but sometimes he still
Gazes down at the infant and sees, through tears,
Twin faces.

Now Dad clasps his hands, bows his face, breathes.
Lord, keep me from burdening my son with
The weight of his brother. He can only live
For himself, and for You. Help me to let go,
To love what I still have. For some reason, it's
Your will for my baby to be an only child.