When years meant nothing
But a happy birthday, blow out the candles now.
I tied my own laces, pride, and stepped out.
I wondered at white specks on my fingernails
And at gasoline rainbows on the street.
I wished on every star,
Falling or not.
And blew on dandelions
Not believing anymore
That they would grant my wishes
But I did.
Just in case, you know.
Lick the icing off the bottom of every candle
Eat pancakes on Sunday
Write down the number for every television ad,
Just in case I decided to buy something.
I read people like books
Loving expressions, back when
Years meant nothing
But really they did.
But a happy birthday, blow out the candles now.
I tied my own laces, pride, and stepped out.
I wondered at white specks on my fingernails
And at gasoline rainbows on the street.
I wished on every star,
Falling or not.
And blew on dandelions
Not believing anymore
That they would grant my wishes
But I did.
Just in case, you know.
Lick the icing off the bottom of every candle
Eat pancakes on Sunday
Write down the number for every television ad,
Just in case I decided to buy something.
I read people like books
Loving expressions, back when
Years meant nothing
But really they did.
This piece has been published in Teen Ink’s monthly print magazine.



Join the Discussion
This article has 2 comments. Post your own!