Tense in our black ties and jackets,

My brother and I slipped out the back door,

Out to the woods where we used to play.



Thorns and nettles

Lick at our ankles as




We pass the old climbing tree,

Laughs—




Your wide-eyed smile,

Have laid rest in the crisp

Autumn leaves.



A few steps further




We pass our old fort,

Our sanctuary from the rest of the world.



Following the trail,




I see the river;

The river that became our home




On those hot summer days,

We swung like Tarzan

From those seemingly innocent heights







Into the gleaming water below

I didn’t believe you’d take the dare,




Climb and swing from way up there;

You’re braver than me.



Remnants of that tangled twine

Hang from the evergreen,











I see you,










A picture of pure happiness










Suspended over the water

Your wide-eyed smile




Gliding through

the air.