Before I walked, you carried me, perhaps a little too long in my Dad’s estimation.
When I got more brave with my steps, you encouraged me, soothed me and sheltered me as I held on to your hand for balance.
I first walked on my own when you came home from your gall bladder surgery. When you came through the front door, my Italian opera career began. There was no dry eye in our living room as I walked to you on my own with my arms stretched out to you.
My elementary steps were usually behind your polyester 70s skirt cuz people were kinda scary. They still are sometimes; that doesn’t exclude my own self.
My teen footsteps weren’t most likely what you had hoped for with my goth wanna be theatrical self but you adjusted with a lot of humor.
My angry, angsty, young adult steps were annoying, pride invoking, fiery, and often disappointing.
Your steps became heavier when your soulmate took an early train out of our mortal world. You have carried on mightily since that fateful October day in 2001.
I continue to learn how to now nurture and help you through the aging process.
Now you are visiting me in the northeast for the 16th year. This year, I have some extra wheels with a seat and breaks ready for you. I hope they will help you navigate as your pains are greater and your energy is less.
I can only hope to help shelter and sooth you as you did for me and as I know my father would insist upon.
#akintsucrooner
akintsucrooner 