There is something out of reach,

in my dreams,

a child grips the back of my neck, with trust.

the soft, warm, head, nestled to my shoulder,
small body absorbed into mine.

Silk sunshine mixed with giggles.

He is gone,

in his place,
a man walks,

with dignity, integrity,
conviction.

I am left to wrestle with his conceivable pain, discomfort.

I beg that my devotion and love will, somehow, lend strength
give comfort,

now that I can no longer carry him.