On plump haunches, she
would squat and stretch,
her arms full. She laughed
each time she saw me.

The sound of fresh water
gurgling, chuckling,
tinkling through each
cup she filled.

The laughs splashed like
amazing waves over our
bellies, became lakes.
She’s fished with Grandpa,

Absorbed my rage, contained
my fear. It has come through
the blood then, this love,
this encompassing awe,

Open-mouthed, with space for change.