changing places

because it has to go somewhere

I want to be a little girl again

down at the river

and watch her bait my hook

while she laughs at the silly child

too prissy to get her hands dirty.

 

I want to be almost grown again

sitting on her bed

reading poetry out loud

all through the night

as if she knows the roads

I would one day travel.

 

I want to take her hand

and walk with her

through adventures not yet shared

because she shouldn't have

to travel there alone.

 

And while I sit distracted,

hesitating in the curves of memory

her weak eyes focus

on a hilly horizon

where he stands waiting.

Author's Note

I wouldn't be the woman or the poet I am without the gifts she gave.

Reviews

[KUFU]

A tear jerker for me for some reason. I think of my mother as a little girl for some reason as I read this poem. The sentiments are soft and reflective...a trademark of your written voice for sure. When you cast these heartfelt poetic spells Ema, I must consider you graduated with high praise at Hogworts! ;-)

[Valentine]

OH sweetie, this poem could be me..my mom was the original Valentine, a published poet as her mom and I am..My daddy went first and them my mom..I miss them so much after all of these years..God bless you..Kathie [Valentine]

[LostInThought ♥]

Simple. I love this poem! I don't really have anything to critique you on, just to tell you that it is great!!

Would you mind reviewing mine?

[Doctor JKC]

We have lived.
Some don't.
Most don't rise above
watching day time TV shows.

New Years Hugs!
Jack

[Ben Ther]

Emily, beautiful. This was entirely moving. There is so much here. Ah, the joys of being young and free. "Curves of memory" fits nicely against, "hilly horizon."

[Perdition]

No one could be..but wow..how wonderfully soft you brought her IN from out of our focus and walked her into our own picture and awareness. I still make it a clause in my life for that plunge into mud at least once a year ....I guess it helps me put that man on the hill into some greater insignificance as well...because in the mean time I have great poetry to sing beside and sharing in this light keeps the fish jumping quite well . What say we push her down the hill before I leave...SHOVE !~..lol.
A beautiful pond in this one~
"Watch out for those rocks"

[TamiViolet]

Emily, this is just so lovely. I sense the warmth and the sadness... I am reminded of my mother and my daughter...and the cycle. Oh, how our lives are interwoven as we become them...and they become us... Every stanza has a way evoking so many emotions within...

'Changing Places'... Even the title makes me cry, my friend, and the last stanza...
I'm at a loss.... Thank you.

[An owl on the moon]

This is so beautiful and tender... can feel the wonder and joy wrapping around you through her life. I loved the sense of childlike delight in being there and sharing those moments. Amazing piece!

[cest la vie]

Beautiful, reflective piece...

[deeps]

This is a very touching write here and heartfelt.
It's beuatifully written and well expressed emotions.

[PoemRodent]

So much to be said about one's reflection and association... Great write as always.

Dostani