Looking through old photographs
I recognize the tomboy
Carefree in cut-off shorts
Hair full and uncombed
“Tube” socks cresting knees
Shirt off, washing the car
Basketball, glove, stick, skateboard
Rock collection
Aluminum can collection
Devoid of pink
Chubby arms thrown around the shoulders of friends
Unknown and unexplored inside

I love that little girl
I love her confident capability
I love her authentic tenderness
I love her astute eyes
I love the way her lips pout
Only to (surprise!) give up a smile
I love the muscularity of her body and her imagination
I love her fierce spirit
I love her innocent devotion
I love her pure thoughtfulness
I love the way she simmers and erupts

When wildness is blooming beneath her
Gathering “trust in herself” is as alien
As the boys on her street
And just about as unnecessary