During the summer of ’96,
I walked the quiet streets
Of the city’s downtown
One peaceful Saturday night.

The riverfront, framed
Between concrete walls,
Conducted silent currents
Toward the edge of town.

I shared steps of reflection
With my wife and infant son;
The babe kept his peace
In the cradle of my arms.

He was awake and gazing,
Ebony dots reflecting the glow
Of the street lights on his face
As he took in his surroundings.

I glanced down at my first-born,
And knew I would give anything
To get a brief glimpse of life
As seen through my baby’s eyes.

© 2004 by Robert E. Blackwell