"Mommy, I don't like you!"

How many moms have heard this: "Mommy, I don't like you!" And if you haven't, you will. It might not be in those exact words, but you will, especially if you are doing your job. ;)

Anyway, my six-year-old son said this several months ago after being punished for an offense. While he was in his room I wrote this poem. I am quite aware of my poetry skills, or should I say, "lack there of." But, I just ran across it again yesterday and thought I would share it with you as I'm quite certain you will feel the same.

"Mommy, I don't like you!" said my son.

I replied with a smile:

"You know what, I don't like you either . . .

I love you!

I love you when you are happy;

I love you when you are sad.

I love you when you are joyful;

I love you when you are mad.

I love you when we blow bubble after bubble;

I love you when you get in BIG trouble.

I love you from your head to your itsy bitsy toe;

I love you when you come and I love you when you go.

I've loved you from the instant you were born;

I'll love you until from this world you or I are torn.

I love you when you smile;

I love you when you pout.

I love you when you giggle;

I love you when you yell, "Get out!"

I love you when you stink;

I love you when you are the aroma of freshly picked flower.

I love you every day, every second, every hour.

I may not like everything you do;

but rest asured my precious child,

I DO LOVE YOU!"