B., R. & C.

I am lamenting them before they have lived
The black sash, the slow walk, the downcast eyes.

I am bringing them gold.
Laughter.
And plastic things.
I am calling it the life they will lead.

I am telling you about my soul
I don't have language
I am telling you about an empty vessel

I am telling you about hopes, dreams
and nothing substantial
I am telling you about having and holding.

I am lamenting them before they have lived
I do not know how to free them

I am lamenting them before they have lived
I do not know how to be with them.