BOOTS

I loved his little baby feet
so small and tender, very sweet ~
little feet in small white shoes.
Today my child is home
and there are boots beside his bed -
muddied boots - the heels are worn -
they look so sad, somewhat forlorn;
these boots have seen a bit of war,
and much as I loved the baby shoes
I love the boots far more.

©Copyright January 1999 by Christina A. Sharik

For Michael, After Somalia

Published in the May 2000 Book "Honor By Listening"
Eastmont High School, East Wenatchee, Washington