So this is how it feels

as the years wind down.

The emotions flow

as streams of saltwater.



The memories are worthy

of more than words.

We communicate in looks

and tears and smiles.



Exhaustion is easy,

sleep is not.

There is too much to think

but not enough desperate hours in the night.



When the sun comes up

our childhood will flee.

The people we met

will blur in our heads.

But the feelings we felt

will hold fast in our hearts.



These last few years,

you haven't been here

to drop me off or pick me up.

But this year

I held you close to my heart,

on a chain around my neck.