It was the first time, for me anyway.

It was the first time that I had

taken a child to school, to leave her there.

It was the first time I had felt that loss.

I was over whelmed by this.

 

I had read of and seen this commonplace act.

I had heard of mothers torn and weeping.

I had smiled to myself and said how silly.

I would not make such a scene.

They will upset their child and frighten it!

They will have their child back, soon enough.

 

Then it was my turn.

The teacher said to my grandchild.

Show your Granddad where you hang your coat.

Show him the desks and fish tank.

Show him the Gerbil and the Hamster.

 

It was time to leave.

It was time to drop her hand.

It was time to let her go.

It was time to experience the pain.

My lips quivered and my eyes stung.

I did not want to let her go.

 

She smiled at me and hugged me.

I clutched her close to my heart.

A tear spilt from my stinging eyes.

I said. ‘Be good, see you at lunch time.’

See you Grumpy Granddad, she said.

 

I walked home alone, with my tears.

 
 
David Garlick, Sidney, June 2008