live long enough

we circle back

to it.

to the cradle. to being
fed
and taken care of.

we come around, if we
live long

enough to be dependent
on
the kindness of others.

spoon fed
and changed.
tucked in and read to.

too weak to go outside,
to walk,
to move
no longer

knee deep in dirt with
the roses.

or on the porch remembering
when
with laughter.

live long enough
and
you'll be back in the crib,

the cage
the basinet of youth,

being looked upon by others,

quiet and still with tears
in their eyes.