To Return the Favor by Kailani Zhang (15, Illinois)

My mother’s back was like a mountain, 
And I lived by the base. 
She provided me with streams for hydration, 
caves as havens from the dangers, 
trees for oxygen to survive on, 
flourishing crops to quench my hunger, 
and many spirits to accompany me on my journey. ​

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Today, as her hair pales, and 
her skin loosens from her face, 
she seems to flow with youth. 
The strong back that stood to protect me
is now relaxed and slumped to a curve.
I know it is my turn 
to stand up straight for her:

To return the favor. 

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