once

once i was a child
and i did childish things
innocent things
life was uncomplicated
unpredictable
fascinating

it lost its luster too quickly
the happiness of it fell like a priceless vase
to the marble floor of dark deeds in unseen places
faces became my fear and fear my closest friend

he's learning of brokenness
just as i once learned it
not to the same degree, G-d forbid!
but learning it nonetheless

what i wouldn't give to be in that garden
every fear forgotten