In Their Freedom

Something to my kids, my best friends.

the confining walls
of an all too familiar room
anchor a matured mind, firmly
boredom collects another casualty

laughter and riotous footsteps
quake the very air,
five wide eyed culprits
give life to dead silence

nothing is granted safety
from young, reckless minds
reality's grand design...
is victimized like paper o'er fire

soiled carpets turn a vibrant green
a castle of epic proportions---
sprouts from nothingness,
piercing a ceiling made of clouds

two frantic, beautiful princesses
signal from the castle's peak
answering the call, three daring knights
gripping swords made of air

they spot the castle's guardian...
a giant black Dragon,
coiled on couch cushions
flames accompanying his every exhale

neither party shrinks
they charge, like seasoned warriors
the dragon roars ferociously...
and war ensues, playfully

the princesses break rank
leaping onto the monster's back,
the knights swing their swords in concert
and the great beast falls

celebration follows swiftly
and in carpet'd bliss
the dragon (named Dad)
dies laughing...

in the heavenly freedom of their imaginations.

Author's Note

Something for the greatest friends I've ever known... your thoughts and critique are still welcome. Thank you for reading.

Reviews

[User]

What a gift for a child to receive. This is very touching, and they are lucky to have a dragon like you

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you so much, your comment truly made this "dragon's" heart smile.

[Coyote Poetry]

We are made of the strength of our elders. I read this poem ten times. Each time I liked the poem more. You create a wonderful place and visions. Thank you Travis for sharing the outstanding poetry. Oldest and wisest saying. We are what we leave behind.
Coyote

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you for such an inspiring review... we indeed are what we leave behind! I'm ecstatic that you enjoyed this piece so much!

[Coyote Poetry]

I did enjoy and you are welcome Travis.

[Kelly Scheppers]

These magnificent works of your children will carry much weight through the years as they grow, Travis. There is nothing like the imagination of a child or the time that we, as their parents, take to nurture them and encourage their dreams. My compliments to the dragon. May he live to conquer another day! ; )

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

And the dragon gives you his sincerest thank you.

[KCthelastboyscout]

A beautiful tribute beyond words.your children have something they can cherish forever and pass on to their children

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you, KC... I can only hope these words prove to be that timeless.

[The Iron Horseman]

This is wonderful, Travis. It captures the kids at play so perfectly! I have a large family too, and like you my kids are my greatest joy. I have seen this scenario enacted in many variations and loved it every time. The snow forts in the winter are my great favorite. I bet you can provide a great death throe as the Black Dragon! I just love it! You drew such a terrific picture that I could see it and feel it. Vivid.
One small typo - line three should read 'anchor' not 'anchors'.
A great piece of work, my friend.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you, your review has me speechless! Yes, I agree with you wholeheartedly, every time is a moment to love and cherish; even when your the bad guy. Lol

And thanks for catching that typo... off to Editsville now. Lol

[The Iron Horseman]

You're welcome. Travis. :D

[The Rock And Roll Cowbo..]

A really cool poem, nothing like the imagination of the innocent child.
What a sweet dedication to your kids.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it... and I appreciate you leaving the wonderful comment.

[Sami Khalil]

A small window of opportunity before they become adults and leave the nest. Those treasured ones are making timeless memories with delight and charm. Very endearing and playful.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Yes, it's a small window indeed, we have to make the best of it while they keep it open to us. Thank you for a lovely comment.

[Sami Khalil]

All true. You are welcome.

[Einstein Noodle]

well said sir! what a blessing to have this wonderful relationship with ones children ..only a short time it is that they will allow adults in to play ;) i am charmed by your poem ...thank the Good Lord for fine memories eh!?
E.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Those fine memories become the timeless treasures of our lives, and I couldn't be more thankful. I appreciate your visit and great comment.

[Kelly Scheppers]

Wow! This is fantastic and defines you in so many ways. But most importantly, a hero of a Dad! A pleasure to read, Travis!

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Being a father is the greatest duty I've ever known, they are the only magic I still believe in. Thank you for such an uplifting review!

[Kelly Scheppers]

My pleasure, Travis. I love children and the immeasurable joy they bring to our lives. Being a parent is truly the most important job we will ever have on this earth. You are blessed to have it in multiples!

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

That I am. Thank you, Kelly.

[jacob erin-cilberto]

boredom collects another casualty" oh that is a priceless line...love it.

and it is fun that you are living your youth again through your kids.

i miss those days of make-believe...of innocence...of thinking life might turn out a certain way...but it does what it decides, not what we decide.
j.

[Travis Gibson (poetic heroics)]

Yes, it is fun indeed... children have that perspective that we envy and hope they share with us from time to time. Lol

And that's one of my favorite lines in this piece as well... glad to know it's appreciated. Thanks for the sincere review.