We are at a knobby-kneed crossroads-
sharp elbows and words,
shaggy hair and creaky voice.  

Ghostly glimmers of the former child
the sweetness faded,
determination waxing.  

Your games are serious, planned, precise-
innocence lingers,
you are uncertain, but strong.  

An insight both profound and naive
puts me in such awe,
so proud of who you will be.