Gwendolyn

They call EB kids “Butterfly Children”

(delicate skin, delicate wings).

But you, my daughter,

are a monarch,

flying great distances

to follow your path—

each, any chosen path—

with absolute purpose.

Monarchs are loved and known

for their beauty, true, but

moreso because we know

how far they will fly,

and if we have wisdom enough,

self-possession enough in the moment,

we know our privilege in sharing

their brief stay nearby.