Spread Your Wings

As I took her hands
In mine and looked
into her eyes I could
see, feel the wanting
of understanding.
I'm not going to tell
you not to go, her eyes
told me, you understand.
Go spread your wings
learn how to fly on you
own. The boy's heart is
broken, he had asked her
to marry him, her parents
were begging her, please
don't go so far away.
Her mind set, she is leaving
soon. Go find out who you
are, what you want, have no regrets
I said. Spread those wings and fly
on your own. No one understands,
she remarks I just have to.
A lump in my throat as I say
It's OK, I see in your eyes, feel
your heart, go my dear granddaughter
spread those wings, learn, feel,
experience. As we parted I said
a prayer, let her spread her wings
but keep watch if she should stray.