eyesofIris

CJP Color copy.png The Challenge: CJP-Teens: What do adults get wrong about teenagers?

Counting backwards is never fun, 
especially when you're fifteen. 

For a moment, we were heroes. 
We sat on the shoulders
of giants, we faced the setting
sun with determination and
a billowing cape. 

We never looked back;
you can't erase the past. 

Another story to tell-
because these days I 
can't think of the future. 

Do you wonder about the stars-
every night they shine
for billions of souls to see. 

Guess what's on my mind- 

Lying under 
starchy white comforters, 
listening to the 
air conditioner hum
its own sweet
melody. 

My mom
fiddling with the 
chunky black radio,
turning and turning
the knob
until

the lullaby plays on
like a river, 
a steady stream of c's
and d's, a sleepy
tune for you and me. 

the branches of the melody droop, 
nice and slow, 
and once again, 

Mama is anxious this morning. Her hands, slim and smooth, like lettuce leaves, tremble slightly as they clutch the handle of Kamilla’s pram.