Waiting

Waiting for Brandon to Finish a Proficiency Test

Waiting in the library
While the snow swirls cold outside,
Surrounded by the wisdom
Of those who've long since died.

Waiting for my only son
To finish one more step
Along the path of knowledge,
Life's never ending trip.

This spring-day snow's a symbol
Of thoughts racing 'round inside.
Glad to see his progress,
Relentless as the tide.

But loath as well to let him go,
This child of my blood,
Like winter staying past its date
With downy, frosty hood.

There is no way to hold time back
These ordered tomes attest.
Their authors, young and vital once
Now gone unto their rest.

The spring will soon defeat the cold,
My son will pass along.
The bitter joy of nature's way,
You hold them, then they're gone.

March 20, 1996