fatherhood
by rohan kaushal
I grasped his hand, loosening the tension in my shoulders He remained mute, he just stared A warm softness emanated from him His forehead wrinkled. His f i n g e r s tightened Then in my head he said, “Hello, Strange and scary looking being. Who are you? Why am I here?” Generations before me had done The same task The same ideals pushing them forward Hoping that they were up to it Hearts and minds trembled In India, Uttar Pradesh My father’s father worked and toiled For his own betterment For those dependent on him Now it is my turn No longer am I just the Son My role has expanded past f i r s t b o r n and loving brother I am scared of this task Tiny eyes look into mine Two hearts beat in sync I say “it’s just me and you Just me and you” My child smiles He doesn’t seem frightened His gaze nevers leave mine and I grasp his hand, the tension leaving my shoulders 52//Experience
ehhhrnnnm
by drew braaten
