How do you keep a son knowing the world can be swell?
For him to always notice how flowers are kind
or the way that pumpkins are not afraid
to grow into their congenial orange.

We want him to look at the sympathetic sky,
understand that rain clouds can be amiable,
slow down to watch an agreeable butterfly.

It’s selfish to want time to stop for me
to gobble up how he runs on cute grass
or points out the crunch of a charming leaf,

but if you are a pleasant grandfather clock
or a fine pocket watch, prepare to be punched.

Carl Burkitt 2026