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.