With An Aged, Wise Mind - Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

I too had been confined...
In a youthful body,
With an aged, wise mind.

It seemed as if I was older than most.
Sure,
I played games with my peers then.
Though bored to tears...
Doing things kids did.

I grew to feel unusual.
Like an 'ET' from out of space.
Whenever the opportunity came to play hide and seek...
I went to a neighborhood variety store,
To speak to the owner...
About 'stuff' that was out of other children's reach.
And when I was done,
The 'kids' would ask me where I hid!
I laughed and told them anything.
Just to watch their faces...
That were so inquisitive.

I understand that mind one has...
Growing and trapped behind eyes so young.
And I have no advice to share for someone like that.
Since I'm sure they will not be ignored.

Dedicated to:
Risha Ahmed
Cochin, India

'Risha...
Keep your patience.
You are blessed with a gift of expression.
AND, at age 'eleven'? ...you have nothing but more
of your 'brilliance' to share.'