When I wasn't looking
you became my friend.
My child so loved—
once my babe 
filling my arms—
my nights 
my days.

Now you challenge my thoughts
and my ideas,
my attitudes.
You ask if I'm really choosing
the best way to live.

You laugh with me
and make me laugh.
You make me proud,
so proud.

But please—
could you let me win 
at chess
once in a while?

For old time’s sake?