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Crossing Bridges Within my small world, dark and warm, Cradled near and free from harm, Breaks light, noise and air within. A gentle voice, then touch of skin. Warm, sweet sucking, a cry for more; All my kingdom ransomed for! New, to my tongue, a textured treat. So very strange, but fun to eat. The time has come I've waited for, To rise now far above the floor! My goal, to walk from here, to there, If I can just control these pair. A language of my very own, My mother understands, alone. A mix of French, some German, Greek? I�ve finally chosen one to speak. Laces tied and book-bag on, I turn around then wave to mom. Two blocks more to where I must Join other kids to catch the bus. I open up my mouth to speak. Three words are out, but then a squeak! One other change, which I can share, I�ve hair, now growing everywhere. Another pair of eyes I see. Smiling, looking back at me! This awkward feeling deep inside, Where desire and common sense collide. Diploma, firm within my hand, I look beyond, from where I stand. The future's bright, though unclear to me, Were I will go, what I will be. The hours long, the work is hard, Now comes the time for just reward. Taxes? Oh, what the heck, It�s Friday and it�s my first check. Anxious, fumbling with my tie. Slight show of fear in my eyes. Appearing radiant down the isle, Through her vale, a glowing smile. Grab the bags! It�s time, you know. Inside the car now, off we go. Ten fingers, toes, angelic face, New light within this sterile place. My chest now fills my drawers these days. The windows blur and slightly haze. �What� precedes �did you say?� My back and knees both ache today. My children�s children visit me. More and more they fill the tree. The past more clearer than today. A bit less hair, a bit more gray. I knock upon that ancient door. Now fading fast, I�ve lost the war. Though clearer now, what waits for me Is life and joy, eternally! Douglas Fletcher 7/12/2001 |
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