A Mother’s Prayer

For the sleepless nights I’ve lived through,

For the restless days I’ve carried through,

For the words I held back, unspoken and true,

Oh my God, let my child not suffer pain,

Grant healing too — for everything, my thanks remain.

I endure… I have always endured, it’s true,

Don’t frighten me — I might grow weak too,

Patience isn’t enough for all three at once, it’s true,

Oh my God, let my child not suffer pain,

I became a good mother — for that, I thank You again.

When I care for one, another begins to cry,

As I soothe this one, the other stands nearby,

I’m tired, so tired — that’s the honest truth I can’t deny,

Oh my God, give me strength, give me patience to hold,

And thanks to my mother, who bore me so strong and bold.

Gulchiroy Axmedova (born August 8, 1996) is a second-year student at Kokand State University, majoring in Primary and Technological Education.