Time Like Tides

We watched the tides changing in front of us,

Like the lines of time on our face.

The Ferris wheel revolved,

Fluorescent lights blinking consistently,

Like the bouncy tunes blaring from the black speakers

In 4/4 time, or something faster.

The smell of fried dough reminded us that

We were at the pier, and not

In a candy-coated memory.

You asked me where did the years go?

All those summer soaked days,

Buying ice cream cones dipped in sprinkles

Of pink, green and orange?

Where did those hours go?

Those hours we spent swinging our kids

Between us

Lifting them off the sand?

They squealed with delight, our

Little flying angels.

Each of those hours now impressed on me,

Like tiny hand prints left in sticky cement.

You asked me so seriously,

As if I had an answer. As if I would know.

Your eyelashes curved, smooth and black,

And I thought I saw one tear,

But it could have been dust,

As we stood there amongst the carnies

And young teenage couples

Clouded with hormones and curfew.

I couldn’t answer.

I don't know where the time went and

I don't know how much we have left.

So I just stared at you, cloaked in silence.

The years kept moving around us.




Somewhat inspired by:

Still Fighting It - Ben Folds
All I Need - Matchbox Twenty