Reflections on a Son's Holiday Visit

The house felt empty

just the moment you left.

And while our house's routine changed

during your holiday visit,

my feelings are mixed now.

If you could be a little boy again,

perhaps it would be different.

But those days are long gone

and you're a grown man.

I recall as if through your eyes
when I too as a young man at times kept

the late night hours you presently do, 

but they didn't match my father's lifestyle then

nor my sedate life style today.

Son, it is nice to have had you home.

There will be a log on the fire

and a warmth in the house

the next time you return.