Cierra Justiniano

When I close my eyes,
darkness engulfs me.
Memories play
like old movies I’ve seen.

Running, risking, reckless, and restless.
Remember when I was younger?
Energy endless,
exploring every hidden corner.

Remember when I got my first job?
A sense of pride no one could take,
quick to leave for a place of my own.
Building a life, something new to create.

Remember when I found love?
It was thrilling at no cost,
like soaring through the sky    
until we found it was lost.

Remember my baby's first cry?
When they couldn’t sleep through the night,
I bundled them in their blankets tight;
I never wanted them out of my sight.

Remember as I got older
and hands trembled
as hair turned gray.
Life feels shorter every passing day.

I remember my mother’s
hugs making me warm,
my father’s voice,
deep as a storm.

When I close my eyes,
darkness engulfs me,
and all that’s left are
memories.