With You in my Pouch - I
by Vicky Chong

inspired by photo of Goran Sevelin, on study leave to look after his daughter Liv
(http://www.johanbavman.se/swedish-dads/)

Your mother carried you
for nine months in her womb
where you made your presence felt
by making her retch every morning,
and webbing her straining belly.
Now as you scream your lungs out,
I’m taking over
as we navigate our journey
as father and daughter.
 
I am a seahorse
with you in my pouch
relishing our life together.      
Can you inhale my warmth
as I swaddle both of us
in this fabric of love I’d woven
while preparing for you?
I’ve missed you for nine months
and I’m not waiting any longer.
 
Command me with your cries,
for I’m a butler to your every whim.
Helpless as I am in my role,
I thank you for trusting me
as I swaddle you with my love.