The heart of a mother

His rosy cheeks make him look healthy, until you realize they're so red because his fever is running so high.He sits, limply, doesn't want to play his video games, or watch TV, or read, or do anything.His tumbling curls frame his pale, emotionless face.My heart swells.Fortunately, the doctor gave him something to control the nausea, because we had make a topknot in his hair to keep him from getting puke on it. He didn't like that. He likes his hair to fly free.When your child is sick, you get a feeling of helplessness. There's a lot you can do, of course: Take his temperature, give him medicine, make sure he stays hydrated, give him love, The last one is the most important.I was sitting down to write this post a couple hours ago, when I went to check on him."Would you stay with me?" he asked. Of course, I replied.When we snuggled and he got comfortable, my neck started hurting because I have a pinched nerve there. But he was resting peacefully, and holding my hand. I bore with it, because at that moment, his comfort was more important than mine. I skimmed through the channels and found one of his favorite shows was broadcasting at that moment. It's called "Too Cute," and each episode follows three litters of puppies or kittens through their first few months.We watched, in silence. "Isn't that a cute kitten?" I'd ask him when one did something particularly kittenish. "Mm-hmm," he managed to reply. Usually, there is laughter and excited chattering. But I knew he was glad we were watching. It helped keep his mind off it.I focused on his breathing, stroked his luxurious hair. He was once a part of me. Literally, physically a part of my body. He's 10 now, and how much longer will he want to snuggle when he's not feeling well? One day, daddy and I won't be the most important people in his life, maybe.That day, however, is not today. After a bit, I coax him into drinking a bit more water. We get him back into bed. He closes his eyes, this boy who doesn't like to go to sleep, ever. He just wants to rest.I kiss him on the forehead and quietly leave the room. My neck and back hurt now, but I don't care.Image by StockUnlimited