sister

When I moved away from home the first time
I never considered going back

the bedroom we tried to grow up in
the family traditions we never kept
the friends whose secrets I forget
I can't believe I went back

but I did once
and I paid the rent
watched a child and a mother in unrest
watched a day unfold and let it go again

and you judged me while I tried to keep myself
in a simple repose

maybe you can come visit me next New Year's Eve
I will kiss your cheek and play you songs
and your son can come and he can sing along
while we toast to the years that are to come

I'll forgive you now
in the home in my head
if you get a job and give yourself a good name
I will be your friend again