My friends grew up without me.
It was the day we came back from summer break,
when bright-eyed I
ran to see a group that had split apart from me.
Everyone was eager to get their drivers’ permits
and go get takeout off campus
rather than bring a home packed lunch
and risk a splinter sitting at these benches.
I didn’t get the texts in the group chat
or the keys to my parents’ car.
I couldn’t talk girls or pop culture,
and I wouldn’t have risked my life
to try a drink or a drug.
I just loved to write and joke and dream
with all of my friends,
imagine the silliest things over
stale sandwiches and fruit snacks.
Every night I was excited to see you guys again
but when I awoke this time, I realized
I lost you.
You grew up without me, and you know what?
That’s okay. We all grow up someday.
Just let me be a kid a while longer,
so I can dream for all of us,
like we always did.