You look at me -
Your eyes widen as you take in
The beard - full and mature now
(White hairs to be found)
The hair - short and clippered
(The practical choice of middle-age)
The skin - more sun-kissed than before
(The legacy of years living in a warmer clime)
A baby's toy in my hand
And food stains on my checkered shirt
I look at you -
Floppy Pantene-washed hair
Youthful energy in a slender frame
Hidden beneath an oversized t-shirt
The start of a fluffy exam-period beard
Eyes bright with the promise
Of the possibilities life may bring
You look closer -
In the shadows behind me
You see an older man
His exact details hazy and indistinct
His story yet to be told
I look closer -
Behind you I make out the form
Of a young boy I still remember
(Though not as well as you do)
From 18 to 43
What do I tell you?
What do you ask me?
You open your mouth to speak
Then stop - hesitant and unsure
I smile at you instead, trying to convey
That life's twists and turns
Are yours to discover
But if they bring you to me
You will be fine
You smile back
Nod
And fade away
~zymotux 2021-03-13
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