As they gather around me, their mouths move
silently singing the song. I stare into the
flames that appear to be dancing, to their off
key pitch. Blowing out the candles, I wish for
what once was.
When yesterday I was only a child dreaming
of my future, tomorrow I will be 31,
reminiscing on who I once was.
Taking a bite my mouth cries, for the sugar
was replaced with the salt from my eyes. To
the sweet 16, my taste buds are met with a
bitter 61.
Ripped open letters, hold memories
expressed through letters. Empty presents
surround, laying in my somber presence.
In their favor, I hold a smile, handing out
their party favors.
I don’t want to grow older, nor do I want to
grow younger. I don’t know what to do or
what to think.
Turning around, I cut another slice of cake
leaving a bittersweet taste.
Emma Hawkins
Grade: 10 / Sec. IV
Bellerose Composite High School
St. Albert, AB
“This poem is about my feelings on getting older. I feel like I missed out on my childhood and I grew up to fast, as I've always been the "mom friend" of the group because I was always worried for my friends and ending up trying to make the best for others childhoods but ending up missing out on my own. So I've ended up not liking my birthday as I always end up feeling sad and left out. Thanks for reading hope you have a good day/night and happy valentines day (if you celebrate)!! ^-^”
Bio
Emma Hawkins is a grade 10 student at Bellerose Composite High School. She recently moved to Alberta from British Columbia. Emma loves poetry, music and nature. She wants to help spread awareness around mental health hoping to help others the same way music and poetry has helped her.