Remembering To Stop

Words & Photography
by Rebecca Heart



I can see it already. There I am with you in my arms, wishing so badly that I could find a way to turn back the clock to right now. To when it was just you and me. To when I didn't have to share you, or pass you around the room. To when I didn't have to introduce you to this big, intimidating, innocence-stealing world.

I'm hitting pause before time grabs ahold of us both. I'm rubbing my tummy a little extra longer. I'm soaking in all those extra kicks and rolls, the bounces and the hiccups, and I'm stamping it all into my memories with the most permanent marker I can find.

But I know better this time. And I've promised myself that I wouldn't forget to stop. Even if we just have a little while longer. I'm remembering to be present during this time that would otherwise make me impatient and anxious. I'm hitting pause before time grabs ahold of us both. I'm rubbing my tummy a little extra longer. I'm soaking in all those extra kicks and rolls, the bounces and the hiccups, and I'm stamping it all into my memories with the most permanent marker I can find. Right here, right now, while it still gets to be, just us.