well-loved children with sparkling eyes

rosy cheeks, and happy smiles

glittering with unbounded joy

freely bestowing generous hugs and

warm kisses that leave cheeks glistening

with reminders of their passing

 

laughter peels from hallway rooms

giggles rising to the gloriously blue sky

caressing souls, nourishing hearts

better than steak and potatoes

or a well-read book

warm arms, tickling fingers

and conversations uninhibited by age

 

playground games fairly played

indoors under the watchful eyes

of guardian parents checking safety

guarding friendships from the

ills of sibling rivalry

growing up together in love

 

meals broken and shared

prayers offered with heartfelt sincerity

special times protecting doors

to teenage rebellion that tears

families apart, breaking hearts

and shattering good times remembered

 

for now, though, life is good

quiet times of reflection broken only

by stories told and songs sung

well-love children with sparkling eyes

rosy cheeks, and happy smiles

glittering with unbounded joy