It could have happened years ago, when youth was on my side

But it didn’t fit my goals. So, I never tried

Putting words on paper

does not make one a writer

simple communication perhaps

but not though provoking

and not fulfilling of some need

Tears surround us

Some observed, some experienced

Tears of joy

Tears of sadness

Tears born of anger

Tears sharing frustration

My birthday has arrived, again

Often ignored and barely acknowledged

Not really a different day

I don’t feel my age, anyway

This piece is dedicated to the staff of NYLT Troop 3B in 2022, both youth and adult. I thank them for beginning as strangers and like a quilt, becoming something new and greater than any of the individual parts. It was my pleasure and honor to be Scoutmaster for the team, June 25 through July 2. May they all be blessed as I was through the experience.