My son laughs, I laugh.

My step-son laughs, nothing.

My son scores a touchdown, I cheer.

My step-son scores a touchdown, I sit.

My son cleans his plate after dinner, I compliment him.

My step-son cleans his plate after dinner, it should be expected.

My son says, “Goodnight.” I say, “Goodnight, I love you.”

My step-son says, Goodnight.” I say, “Goodnight.”

He is mine.

He is hers.

And the difference I said would never matter…

matters.