26 Chromosomes

I look into the mirror
but can not see my reflection
instead, an image of my father
stares back with a smile.

After 19 years I see
I hve not become who I claim.
I am what he wanted me
to be.

I see my father hard at work
from the day he was born.
Every lesson learned
teaching to me.

I am his blood, sweat, and tears
his endless work,
the fruits of his labor
the sacrifices of life
I am his son.

I walk down the street
and see my mother
staring up at me
from a puddle

I am her long nights
her early mornings
her never-ending, growing love.
I am her son.

I lay in bed at night,
thinking of those who
see themselves in the mirror
and wonder why.

I wonder why they do not
have 26 chromosomes
and what lessons they will
never know, or teach.
we are reflections
us all.