I smiled
as you walked
far away from me
farther and farther
each day
faster and faster.
something new or unexpected
for you
a sacrifice so huge
and often ignored
a smile
thrown out the window
for you
less and less
you turn back
more and more
I notice.

I let you run
now
I can’t catch up.
I call your name
again,
again
each time
a little farther away
an echo calls back to me
you go your own way.

A one sided conversation
now with myself
absorbed in your own world.

The wind runs
through my hands
as I try to catch
you almost lost. 

Come
running
back
right away
again.

By your side,
always,
never
holding your hand.

You smile back—
and you are gone.

I smile—
and I am still
where I have always been.