The Bridge

This was the entry that finally won out to be my submission for the NCRA Young Author's project.
New note (2/09/09) My poem won at the state level as well and will be included in the Young Author's project 2009 compilation book! Thanks to all who voted and helped me choose!

The Bridge
Standing on the bridge,
I am 11, exploring a new neighborhood
With my family:
The pond, the woods, the neighbors,
Staring off one side to the deep water,
Dark and foreboding
To the other side,
A simple waterfall,
Splashing down to rocks below.

Standing on the bridge,
I am 12, adventuring
With my brother:
Bologna sandwiches in hand,
Stepping across gaping holes,
Wicked and empty
To find the perfect spot
For a picnic, a picture, a quest,
Talking about everything and nothing

Standing on the bridge,
I am 14, going fishing
With Grandmama,
Digging worms, Baiting hooks,
Watching bobbers disappear
Fading into the oblivion of the pond
Until we slowly pulled up
A catfish, bass, or perch,
Quietly enjoying the peace.

Standing on the bridge,
I am 16, trying to impress
Matt and Wayne,
Maneuvering the idiosyncracies
Of the familiar bridge,
Hoping my bravery and daring
Will be appreciated
And true love
Will be mine

Standing on the bridge,
I am 18, loving and in love
With Steven,
Celebrating my birthday –
Kisses, pictures, friends, and brother
Waiting to enter the adventure
Of adulthood
And independence
Forever

Standing on the bridge,
I am 41, remembering
With my husband,
Recalling old memories
Of old boyfriends, childhood adventures
Fishes caught and ones that got away,
Moments of relaxation
And peace-- And love
And bridges.

Tonnye Williams Fletcher
Union Chapel Elementary School
Forever Young
Robeson County