You burst into my story With laughter bright and free, Saturday morning coupon runs— Just you, your dad, and me. You'd wave us down the driveway, Then dance your best goodbye, Leaving smiles behind you Like sunshine in the sky. You gathered all the family, You made each holiday glow. The life of every party— That's the Jessica I know. You danced in the driveway, Laughing at the sky, Filled every room with joy As the years went rushing by. I never came to take a place That wasn't mine to claim— I simply hoped you'd save a space For one more heart, one more name. And if someday your music Finds its way back to our home, You'll never have to knock alone. Love doesn't end because our stories disagree... You'll always be Joyful Jessica to me. I chose you from the moment Your father chose my hand. My four became our eight that day— The way I always planned. I kept your mother's memory With honor, love, and grace. Her picture stayed, her stories lived, No one could take her place. Across the miles we traveled, Whenever we could go. Your dad would fix the broken things, I'd watch my handsome grand sons grow. Christmas Eve in matching jammies, Children gathered near. Your sweet kids called me "Grandma"— A gift I'll always treasure here. Then came a quiet autumn, The leaves began to fall. "I love you both... But I'll be there for my family." We said, "We love you too." Then held each other's hands. I watched those words break Daddy's heart... More than you'll ever understand. The silence spoke much louder Than either of us knew. And later came a story That simply wasn't true. Words I never spoke Carried on the wind, Turning love into distance I still can't comprehend. You danced in the driveway, Laughing at the sky. That's still the girl I choose to see Whenever you cross my mind. Though seasons change And hearts can drift Farther than we planned, Nothing can erase the years We walked here hand in hand. If someday the music Should lead your family home, The porch light still is shining, Just as it has always been. You'll never have to knock alone. Love leaves the door unlocked... In case tomorrow Is where healing begins.
