BROTHER

Farts, cubbies, rolling in the dirt,

in my hand a wooden gun.

BMX tracks with jumps, dips and turns,

Oh, big brother, we had fun.

You gave me many bruises, cuts,

bribes and girly tears.

But all was forgotten quickly,

As beside you, I had no fears.

From big bullies on buses

with bags swinging round.

To reassurance and whispers

on night time scary sounds.

At different ages and stages,

I thought you an alien from one planet or another?

A friend, a teacher, once even a stranger,

But always, my one and only, brother.

These days although we are hours away,

And miles keep us apart.

You are daily on my mind,

And forever in my heart.