Walking Through Time (Part One)

This morning I went on my daily stroll. Only this time it was quite different: I permitted my mind to take control How much I knew not or to what extent. It took me on a tour of memories. I see a boy walking in this same place. He hears a call, “Al...bee!” The reverie Had roused in him his mother’s lovely face. He knew the purpose of her tireless call It was almost noontime, its time to eat. He arrived home late that day I recall And consequently took a little heat. She said, “Albee, it’s rude to be tardy ‘I’m Sorry’ does not ease severity.” Just as I was about to get a smack My mind propelled me into the future Same boy, a bit older. As I think back I was always getting slapped, that I’m sure. I couldn’t understand, I'd done no wrong. If angels roamed earth, you’re looking at one. Again I hear her call the same singsong Inflection. Al...bee! Al...bee time to run. I could hear her from across the river. There is no way I can make it back in time. The kids chanting" run! Run Chicken liver!” I booked it to the bridges railway line Crossed over, then across the open field To where I’m walking now. I’m here! I yelled. But my words fell on deaf ears. I’m a tot Again. Standing atop a rail, arms stretched Out for balance. Not too far from this spot Where I’m now walking. The memory is etched Indelibly in my mind. I count steps One! Two! Buckle my shoe, three, four, close...oops The door, Five, six pick up sticks. This I kept Up until I slipped off the rail. Then whooped Like an Indian, then once more I cried Out and an echo returned repeating Wooaheeeah! Aheeah far and wide. Suddenly I heard a whistle blowing A freight train on the same tracks where I stand Better move myself from this piece of land.