CHILDHOOD CHANGES


Awake?
Wet, black nose pressed to skin
Thumping tail against sheets
Wanting outside.

Chase an owl or roll in damp grass
Whatever.
None of my business; except
Must leave the comfortable bed.

Stumbling across the room
Tripping over brass and teddy bears
Turn corner, down the hallway, open door
Wait.
Is that a mouse?
No... porch swing
Who’s outside?

Slowly stepping out
Smelling orange

“Can I have some?”
You silently hand me a slice.
I spot the drops of water.
Silence.
When the sun rises
Decide it was a dream or the rain
Mommy doesn’t cry.