The Space of Three Years

The Space of Three Years

Walking into my room I see my graduation cap and tassel

And I am reminded of the future.

Random items scatter my room that help me to remember

The whirlwind that has been my high school experience.

A mask I bought in Rome hangs above my bed,

Making me smile as I remember the places I’ve been.

My pink alarm clock reminds me of all the early mornings.

My math book strewn on the floor brings back memories of

Hours spent pouring over hopeless problems that seemed to have no answer.

Essential oils resting on my night stand remind me of sleepless nights spent over

Worrying about class projects and the friends that I didn’t have.

My character shoes allow me to reminisce about hours of rehearsal

And the many performances of my musical theater career.

The pink teddy bear with the button nose shaped like a heart

Brings back memories of my grandmother who is now gone. 

I walk towards my window and gaze out at the beautiful sunny afternoon;

Recalling the innocence of youth and how easy everything used to seem.

A photograph resting in my trash can catches my attention.

I curiously reach in and pull it out.

The picture is torn, blocking out the person who I seem

To have my arm around with a smile.

I move the torn piece and recognize the stranger

that used to be my best friend.

My heart feels heavy with regret and I feel sick with sadness.

I toss the image back where it belongs and shake off the feelings. 

A red sweat shirt hanging in my closet brings a smile to my face

As I realize what is still ahead.

I have time to change, to reinvent the girl who watched

Without speaking; who stood for nothing and fell for everything.

College is my fresh start; my golden opportunity to redefine

Who I am, and who I will become.