Shantih Journal | Page 13

For Brenna <3 Ernie

Karen Craigo

Last night my son

drew a picture for Brenna,

who watches him sometimes

and is sweetness and joy.

They stand side-by-side

in blocky slacks, and you know

she is a girl by the bun

balanced like an apple

on her head. In the picture,

each wears a U for a smile

and they stand apart,

not touching nor able

to touch, their arms

short and handless.

When he gave it, he broke

into grief, racking sobs,

eyes closed in shame.

He loves her. Consider

his vision, two, standing,

so happy and plain

in their britches. It is

simple. There is nothing

easier; the beauty

hurts him, each one

dignified and glad,

small arms open

to possibility in

the twin flags

of their rectangle pants.