He runs free; crunching leaves underfoot
flailing assortment of sticks
glee overcomes a face

carefree, lawless, conscious
curly sweaty mop
atop flushed dimple cheeks

Neither of us tiring
this moment lasts forever
I tag alongside exuberance

And just being near
I am youth
the wind; the colors; the scent

Leaves burning far away
reach my nose
knowing I never really left
and never will