And the Poets Down Here...
My Children  (Tillie's Wish)
By John Larish

Where are  my children
Have you seen them?
All colors, all sizes
All laughter, all wonder, all eyes

Some have grown, but still hold their hearts
In memories of an easier time.
Of beaches and rides and ocean

Cold winds howl through my steel frame
Is that laughter I hear?
Just a leaky roof
If I smile long enough they'll come back

Each spring brings the promise of my children
Who never return
As I sit, waiting, more of me slips away.
Each speck of dust, flake of rust, drop of water, breath of wind
Ensures a closer end.

My days may be numbered
But my children hold the counter

Weather's letting up
Sun's getting warmer
Maybe They'll be back this year.