RUN OUTSIDE AND PLAY

Isn't this what we all want to do?
by: me, October 2005

Run outside and play. And just remember

What it was like to fly with the wind

As you released more string and the kite went up

And you felt the innocence and exuberance of youth

Run outside and play. And just forget

The adults’ admonitions as they called you in for supper

And you ignored them, consciously aware of how

Moments like this would not last forever.

Run outside and play. And laugh and cry at

The many times you fell and scratched your knee

You just picked yourself up, dusted yourself off

A simple bandage was enough to heal the superficial wounds of youth

Run outside and play. And just ignore

The way the bullies teased and taunted, for they did so

Only because they knew deep in their hearts

You were the better person all along

Run outside and play. Though years have passed

The streets and playgrounds are still there

In your mind, in your heart, for you

To swing high, and higher still

Despite the falls, the bullies, the heartaches.

NOW, run outside and play.