Spaces in my Case

I look to the horizon, the possibilities, a filling of the cup, and self, pushing to goals, a far off land , an ocean, and waters I have not known, land-locked as I’ve been. I will place memories in the spaces between rolled t-shirts in my suitcase. That scar on my foot, faded, a remembrance of children’s laughter, chased, the gasping pain, the skin tore wide. The image, a picture in the mind, the edges frayed from handling, the pulling in and out from the pocket of thought, hands running the creases where time has folded it. I will shift jeans and scarves to the side. Place a stuffed companion, an October cat, patch-worked, a hole by its ear, an accidental burning in childhood, laid in the nook between Sweaters, socks, and University of Pink panties, eleven years of folding at Vicky’s. The birthday necklace from daddy, grandma’s bracelet, and Papa’s pocket watch. Pictures to be shoved in pockets & sifted through on planes, mourning the books, four bookcases left behind. When I leave, all will follow behind, little ducklings to send me off, grandma will place a sandwich in hand, edges cut off like summer treks to the pool. I will refuse to cry, but later waiting for the boarding call, eyes clenched, heavy hearted, I will stuff my mouth with ham & cheese to muffle that aching pain.