growing up and out

some made it out,

some didn't.

some graduated

from beer

to wine,

to mary jane,

and beyond, wrapping

a band around

their arm

to find a vein.

most that went that

far, i never saw

again.

i like to think of them

before that.

on the street

with a bat and glove,

hat on,

and smiling

for the camera as

we played stick ball.