Sun and Shade

“Tag—you’re it!” Kids flit across the grass with invisible wings instead of burning lungs. Grass stains and dirt smears are alive in their spirit, scorned by the watchful adults. Sun shines on smooth skin untouched by wrinkles or lovers, and casts shadows on those nearby who know these things far too well. Pink juice dribbles down from laughing faces; one dark seed peeks out from moist red fruit, drawing squeals and childish warnings: “Swallow a seed, and a watermelon will surely grow in your belly.”