By Yourself

Henry wants to do things
“By yourself," as he will say,
Asserting independence
Every step along the way.

At two years old (well, plus a half)
He’ll heartily rebuff
All offers of assistance
(And you cannot call his bluff).

It’s fascinating watching
As he comes into his own,
With aspects of himself that will
Remain when he is grown.

But now, as an observer,
I can give him what he needs –
The space to do things “by yourself”
In hope that he succeeds.