Back to Today

I pick up my guitar because I want to go back.

It’s not that I don’t like today; it’s that the light is softer in my memory.

It is warmer. It hugs me, unencumbered by the unknown ahead.

And I want to go back to a small bed,

To my young mind, and a father’s loving lullaby.

I want to go back to my mama’s arms, telling her I’d never leave, but she knew I would.

I’d go back if I could to the innocence of a child’s oath,

And pencil marks on doorways showing how much I’ve grown,

When summers were slow, and home was laughter, even if not ever after.

I remember when meals summoned clans, and kitchen tables were the center.

I remember when front doors promised adventure.

So I pick up my guitar, and my heart is filled with joy.

I breathe this moment in and try to make time stay,

Because I know soon, I’ll want to go back to today.