Caring for my Caretaker

Sandwiched between innocent fingers

Are wrinkled dollar bills

And the cashier’s eyes linger

On my own.

Grown up in an instant

Only twelve, but

Childhood distant

As I walk home from the grocery store

Alone.

Up rusty steps, inside --

The responsibility of youth

Glorified.

Small hands make

Small meals for three.

When you care for your caretaker,

You are never carefree.