Filling out FAFSA forms by night, chasing children at the bus stop by day

All in a day’s work for the parent of wide-ranging offspring

In the dark of a living room where the TV has just been turned off

In the glaring sunlight where the diesel fumes roil

Anxiety can spring up anywhere. 

When worrying about dotting all the i’s and filling all the coffers for this teen

Awakens ancient fears and failures in your own teen psyche

When bedtimes and days off and firm first grade routines

Rekindle similar sibling struggles

Each struggle distinct and yet one in the same

One span of the time space continuum that stretches and loops back upon itself

You have been here; You have done that

It is now difficult in new ways.