Walked two blocks to pick up a newspaper
for the tide chart, happenings on the Island
local concerns about dog parks, politeness,
Fourth of July parades, fireworks,
gay marriages on the beach, grills, mattresses,
seedless watermelon, steak and salmon for sale.
A bright red bike approached but the wind
was fussing with my hair as I smiled... hello
so I almost didn't see underneath the helmet
and yellow safety vest this kid with Progeria
who looked surprised, sailing by into the sun
as I added...beautiful day, once again
reminded we are all both living and dying
the telephone poles our last hope.
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