Why I Stare

Yes, everything can change
In an instant,
Or an eternity,
Or so it seems,
I gaze at our daughter's face.
Admiring,
Cherishing,
Wishing this moment will linger.
"Why are you staring at me, Dad?"
I sigh.
"I love looking at you,
Like I love looking at flowers,
Or watching the waves,
Or the sunset."
Questions scrunch her face.
"That's silly, Dad."
"You'll understand
When you have your own babies."

Years later, I caught her staring at her own baby.
"Now do you see why I stare at you, even now?"
She gave me a warm, tight hug.