When I was ten years old I decided I was going to run away from home, this is where I came. Only ten steps from my back door but still far enough away. Sweet escape and safe haven from the disasters of life, this rooftop refuge served as so much more than home base when we played tag. With days gone by, this rooftop was witness to the bittersweet, the sorrows and the triumphs of childhood expeditions. Sitting on the shingles of this white shed behind my parents place, I remember the first soft summer rays of sun as they fell around me, when I first discovered this spot of mine.
When hopscotch and hide-and-seek no longer held our interest we used what was left of our strength to climb the stucco wall, reach the water tank, and finally lift ourselves to the top. Our eyes would scan the desert horizon, imaging the treasures that lay just over the next ridge and beyond. Eventually, seeking treasures we would never find gave way to gazes rising from the earth to the heaves; but, still dreaming, I'd find the answers to my questions among the astronomers' famous figures in the night sky. The stars tonight tell me of the time they saw me last.
The taste of artificial fruit flavoring in a frozen delight suring summer is definitely a contrast to the warm kiss that tastes of spearmint gum and Carmex. Lips stained red from cherry popsicles somewhat resemble those gingerly painted with Cover Girl lip gloss. this rooftop sanctuary brought butterflies when I experienced waht was thought to be true loves first kiss.
When I spoke out loud, I knew no one heard me but Him and He was all that mattered. I used to wonder if he heard me, even when no one else did. My being here today is proof to me that the prayers I sent up on those faith-filled nights were heard by someone. On other nights, I wasn't able to speak to anyone but the friend beside me. Then, it was up to me to do the listening. Advice given, and advice taken, with all the words exchanged, created the person that is sitting her today.
One wouldn't say that shingles make for the best place to lay your head, but I am not quite as comfortable anywhere else. When I look up with intentions to reminisce, or dream, there is no place I'd rather be. As distance has grown between my place of refuge and I, so does my will to return. it was my place to grow, to discover, and it was my place to pray. It is my place to think, to dream and to always remember. Today, I remember yesterday here atop my shed, and tomorrow I will remember today.
Beautifully written!
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