perfect as is

Laced up tight,
skimming through the air,
cold noses, smiling faces.
I slow down,
make a slight turn backwards,
and skate on...

I watch the other skaters,
some wobbly, some sure.
I look back and see my brother.
He glides by and we know
it's time to race,
though it matters not who wins.

For now he's with me, that's all that matters.
Right now I need none other,
yet the universe
dare tell me that it's time...
 
"Eh," I say, non-plussed.
"Prove it.  I'm fine until it's right..."

Til then, I'll make another turn,
graceful and content,
and skate on...

I grasp my baby brother's hand,
and look up at him and smile.
Your schemes can wait, dear Universe,
for this is perfect as it is.

kbs 2.4.12