13/08/2021
What advice would you give
your eight-year-old self?
the magazine interviewer asks.
I think about that in my case
and then turn to tell him.
But before
I can open my mouth
he’s off again:
running, climbing,
passing, shooting,
cycling, talking,
watching, holding
his breath
in the midst of adult silences
and half-felt pain -
wishing
for the opposite
of what’s good
because that’s God’s protection money.
“Remember…”, I begin
“Always…”, I start.
But he’s already on the move.
In the doorway,
a half-smile
to reassure me.
