To Wendy From Peter

I promised you real adventures. I promised that you wouldn’t have to grow up. We lived without the cares of the real world Like doing what you were told. There was no school or bedtime. No dressing nice for a grown-up’s party. We could do what we wanted— Until you remembered what you were missing. So you went back. You grew up. You grew old. Why did you do that? Why have you now gone on to a place beyond Neverland? I cannot speak with you anymore But I could before, even as you grew up. Now, you have left for An adventure where I cannot follow. You have gone to a place Where I cannot ask you to mend my shadow. Can you still fly? Do you still need fairy dust? You were one of the bravest During our adventures together. Be brave for your final and greatest adventure Because you are on your own. I can’t be with you. Even though, when I said to you, “Do come with me,” I meant forever.