The Cycle
Running
Across the kitchen and into the dining room.
Jumping
From one couch cushion to the next.
Hugging
Your parents after they got you the toy you wanted at Christmas.
Crying
When the rerun of your favorite childhood show doesn’t play.
Screaming
When your dad tickles you until you can’t breathe.
Wishing
That you ate your dinner so you could have ice cream.
Running
From the sound of the middle school bell ringing.
Jumping
In front of your friends to tell them what happened in math class.
Hugging
That boy and feeling the butterflies build into your stomach.
Crying
When that boy doesn’t give you anymore hugs.
Screaming
When that boy asks you to the dance.
Wishing
That you were prettier and skinnier to fit into the crowd.
Running
From the sea of homework.
Jumping
From book to book trying to find the answer.
Hugging
Your pillow at night, crying, because of that midterm you have tomorrow.
Crying
Because you didn’t study, which means you will fail.
Screaming
When you find out you passed, no matter the letter grade.
Wishing
That you were smart enough.
Running
From bills and student debt.
Jumping
From practice to practice, retrieving your kids.
Hugging
Your children tight, fearing they’re growing up.
Crying
When they tell you they hate you.
Screaming
At the pettiest things.
Wishing
That you were better for them.
Running
To the hospital every time you walked up the stairs.
Jumping
To the memories of being able to chew solid food.
Hugging
Your family, knowing your time with them is limited.
Crying
When you know you have to let the cycle of life overcome you.
Screaming
On the inside for death to spare you another day.
Wishing
That you focused less on making a living and more on living your life.