My Mom and I

By Darren Lagbao

My mom who used to read me to sleep.
My mom who cooks adobo with pork sauce and boiled eggs.
My mom who supports me by listening to me when I’m down.
My mom who endures any trouble we give.
My mom who is patient when she’s teaching us
How to take care of our five dogs.
My mom who bakes chocolate chip cookies for me and with me.
My mom who is serious when the moment’s needed
Like when I hurt someone’s feelings.
My mom who is funny when the time is right
Like when my dad got the car stuck in a ditch.
My mom who is hard working, the way she stacks wood for winter.
My mom who is smart. She offers us guidance.
My mom who is comforting, like when I’m sad,
She puts her arm around me, and I lay in her lap.

This broadside celebrates the partnership of Seattle Arts & Lectures' Writers in the Schools Program and Seattle Children's Hospital, empowering pediatric patients with guidance from poets Sierra Nelson and Ann Teplick. It was produced at the School of Visual Concepts in April 2020 and letterpress printed by Sarah Kulfan in a limited edition of 110.

Learn more about the Words of Courage collaboration.