Pity They Missed It, by Alyce Clark

I watch the children play.
And they watch their phones-
glance at their watches.

I see them grow and learn.
They see tomorrow’s to-do list-
missing today’s glory.

I referee the games.
They sit in the stands-
not involved, not present.

I hear the kids laughing.
They’re deaf to those giggles-
that will soon be outgrown.

I know these moments are fleeting.
They know schedules and playdates-
forgetting childhood ends quickly.