It’s when first thoughts come to mind,

everything once simple complicates

the moment. Standing in a square I watched

the pigeons gather in flocks and land 

expectantly on people’s shoulders. I was

naturally intrigued by the whole scene.

That’s what a good tourist can do,

camera in hand looking fascinated. 

That was one day in my life many years

ago when everything seemed so real.

I didn’t think ahead to decades later

when I would spend my nights wondering

if my children did love me or I was only

an obligation in their busy lives. It was 

easy to feel sorry for myself that day.

It’s when we realize our time has come.