For Sierra (At Age 14)
by Michael Doyle

Though sometimes now, I have to squint 
To get the clue of what it is you meant
This poem is for you as you reach 14
Growing into one of my favorite human beings

Whether it's building robots or coding
Or talking about issues you'll be voting
Not a day passes by without you amazing me
You've grown from a child to truly dazing me

With all the things that you say and you do
Even the things you want to believe in as true
All seem to be part of you at the age of 14
Growing into one of my favorite human beings

I hold my breath as you get just a little older
Speaking and acting confidently, being bolder
Standing your ground for all the things you believe
And I see you can do anything that you conceive

With all the things that you say and you do
Even the things you want to believe are true
The dreams you share and make you care at 14
Growing into one of my favorite human beings

Please keep her safe God is one thing that I pray
You are growing up in a confusing time and day
And I see your capable mind grappling with hesitation
As you take on this world with all its questions

Never lost within any sort of abstraction or illusion
I watch you take the world head-on without confusion 
But seeking to make your own path and have your say
Leaving me prouder of you with every single passing day

With all those things I hear you say and that you do
The bigger and lesser things you want to believe are true
All seem impressive as parts of you as you become 14
And are growing into one of my very favorite human beings

(c) May 26, 2023  Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved