Child

for Lilliana


child
do you know I used to tell you my secrets
all those days, before you were born
we travelled light, you danced and played
I tried not to laugh, as you kicked and spun

you were born with eyes that knew more
with a body that did not want to sleep
with a hunger of stomach and spirit
that I have sometimes struggled to feed

oh I did make you some promises
I’ll hold them, keep them, see them through
I did not know that each year’s winding curves
would differ so from what the maps did show

lately I’ve come to spy on you, your growing seeking ways
your height and grace, tempt a knowing smile
for you have always danced in the breeze of time
with a wild eyed grin and a mountain’s strength

so carry on surprising me, for you know where I love to dwell
home is your heart and a pool of wonder
your vertigo vigor
and tsunami love

©2007 C. L. B. Callender