all of it for keeps

as the skaters

slide

and glide along the white

sheet

of the frozen

pond.

you see the glee of youth,

the speed

and agility,

the joy framed

with

appled cheeks.

but it's the old ones,

hand in hand

slowly circling,

together

that gets your attention

the grace

of age,

the beauty in love

and friendship.

hand in hand skating.

all of it for

keeps.