Once the boy had come safely into the world, she realized how her prayers for him had changed. It was not for life and a strong body to hold it's treasure she prayed, for he had these; he was a sturdy, shapely baby from the first. It was that he might be caring and useful in this world.Such a short way could she go with him on the path of his life; only a few years she would have his hand in hers. For a few more years he would have his hand in hers. For a few more years he would walk beside her; then he would be a man going his way alone, but if it were a way of kindness, the memory of that first day would always fill her with joy. 

~ unknown author