Through blue eyes and curly blonde hair
I looked up at her, a tall, landlocked mermaid
In a dry world. Coyly, she brushed her long,
Red hair back from her face, her child cooing
On the changing table inches from her. Like
Rubies, her hair glistened, smooth, scented,
And fresh from the sea. Only her tips touched
The restroom floor, swirling in puddles of
Humanity, making her more than just a vision
In a child's eyes and a mirror's reflection.

She was my earliest childhood memory and envy.
The day of our encounter, I saw Ferris wheels,
Coasters, and merry-go-rounds with limited excitement.
Only she crept into my soul and showed me every
Child's fantasy.

Maybe, there's a rock above the sea where she sits,
Letting the tips of her long strands moisten under a
Tropical sun, and her child plays among the sea-creatures
Carefree. And now, with my own superficial scarlet strands,
Maybe she'll look into a restroom mirror and see me.

12/21/2006