One Other Step

Woken from his sleep with a gentle tap from Dad Today would be a different day from any that he's had Scrubbed his face until it shone, brushed his teeth and hair Then fitted on the brand new shoes he had so longed to wear Kissed his Mom, then waved goodbye while rushing to Dad's side Then tucked his lunch beneath his arm, a special treat inside Walked up the street then down the road to reach the school gate He knows he must now go alone his father so did state One step forward then one step back, one shadow to be seen The larger that protected his, is what his life had been To comfort, love enrich, and hold, these taller ones he'll meet To be as they or other than, the choice is his to seek. Brenda Elizabeth Rose