Sun and Shade

“Tag—you’re it!”
Kids flit across the grass
with invisible wings
instead of burning lungs.
Grass stains and dirt smears
are alive in their spirit,
scorned by the watchful adults.
Sun shines on smooth skin untouched by
wrinkles or lovers,
and casts shadows on those nearby
who know these things far too well.
Pink juice dribbles down from laughing faces;
one dark seed peeks out from moist red fruit,
drawing squeals and childish warnings:
“Swallow a seed,
and a watermelon will surely grow
in your belly.”