I hear complaining erupt all around me,
outrage at having to follow rules.
I hear your side and his, but try to stay
out of it.
I hear graduation plans.
DJs, balloons, cake. Ribs or brisket?
I hear my dad say he's going to miss me,
my sister say she won't, but then she
brushes a tear away.
I see myself walking across the stage,
taking my ticket of freedom.
I see my parents, crumbling as they realize
their oldest is moving on.
I see them looking at the youngest
and hoping time passes slowly.
I see the ring handed to me,
a promise of forever.
I remember thinking this day was
so far away.
I remember panicking, then
rejoicing, then becoming
sentimental as the end
of this chapter came steadily closer