joey k poetry

My youth was lucky enough
to include a playset in the yard.
One day I finally built up
the courage
to swing on the monkey-bars
unassisted.
The first two bars were easy,
no need to leave the safety
of feet on the ladder.
Once the third rung came
I was forced to support
my weight myself.
A pudgy kid learned
the simple rules
of excess mass.
Arms gave out, my back slammed the dirt
and with the wind knocked from me
I cried.
Nobody came to rub my back
or tell me everything’s okay.
I picked myself up
dried my tears
caught my breath
and vowed to never again
try the monkey-bars.