I Want to Step

outside myself and leave
the grooming behind

to be mischievous and
set aside usual natty rules

which have surrounded me.
I throw all of myself into

escaping and don childhood
staring down anyone with

suits and slim briefcases
at Downtown’s fancy pool

staring with business frowns
who gasp as I splash them.

Oh the rituals of child delight
are without bounds and I do

create a fun world I left behind
performing what I should not

stamping shoes in the mud
throwing clumps of grass at

neighbours hoping I’ll miss.
Chase the cat and climb our tree

soon time to stop the dreaming
and turn back to restful sleep.

© Richard L. Provencher