The Big One Eight

today, sister, you are an adult
among the hurried ones in suits
attention cast to watches and briefcases.

today, sister, i cannot look 
upon the numeral of your age
without the feeling i have missed something.

today, sister, it is not just a birthday.
the whole house has fogged up
with unknown feelings.

today, sister, my throat is dry
when i try to show my joy
of this day when you were born.

today, sister, perhaps
it is i who simply cannot fathom
that you are the child i grew up with

no longer.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2007

Poem

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