Young Boy Still

Watching from the grassy lawn Sitting in his folding chair. With his veteran’s cap upon Taking in the whole affair. Sits a man of many decades Hair of white and skin that’s weathered. Uniform adorned with braid Medals on his chest are tethered. Balanced upon his daddy’s shoulders Delighted with the grand parade. Maybe six but not much older Bright eyed boy sports red Band-Aid. In between the floats and snare drums Little boy’s brown eyes connect. With the face of age and wisdom Joined with smiles warm and direct. The final float with riders waving Crowds break up and drift away. Clean up crews now sweep the paving But the old man sits and stays. From his chair he eyes the boy His thoughts turn back to long ago. Remembering childhood days of joy Parades and picnic campfires glow. Now his faces a mass of wrinkles Arthritic hands and dimming sight. Still his old eyes hold a twinkle As he watches youth so sprite. Even though the years have spoken Time and health have slipped away. In his spirit youth unbroken Living still a bright boy plays.