Just enough

It’s too much I imagine

him saying with words

he does not yet have

too much to be held

too much.

Strange man I don’t know

foster dad who are you

I don’t want to be here

it’s too much.

We try walking instead

a few steps

then he stops

plants himself on the ground

and waits.

He is done for

now it’s too much.

Do not hold my hand

do not lift me up

do not look at me.

It’s too much.

We wait.

He reaches his hand

the one he took back

from me

he reaches it out

to you to hold.

As he rises his eyes

focus on your smile

big brother you are

just enough.

With you he knows

he is safe

no fear he will rise

and walk

just enough.

With each step by

your side he dismantles

too much

learns just

enough

and eventually over time

more.

First published by Drunk Monkeys, July 18, 2022.