Each Passing Cloud

On lazy summer days, carefree, I used to gaze at endless sky, And guess the shapes of clouds go by, Wondering who I'd want to be. Eyes followed fast my fancy fate, Before the clouds would dissipate. An elephant stuck on a twig? A monkey on a shopping spree? A tiger swinging on a tree? A hairless cat wearing a wig? Or maybe if the cloud turned dark - A wild wolf or a hungry shark? I have grown up, so did the clouds - Not always on their brightest side, Not always my fate's trusted guide - Showered over my sky with doubts. As with my cherished long time friends We moved along and made amends. With every passing cloud I find - Regardless of what shape or hue, As shades of grey turn back to blue - A silver lining's left behind. Childhood clear clouds will always be Part of my past and part of me. March 4, 2023