Susan Budig (in her own words): “I am not a full-time writer, but I work freelance in writing as much as I want. I am a full-time primary care parent. I still have three kids at home and in school.My business card identifies me as writer, poet, teacher, coach, but I am working on so much more. I am transcribing interviews for Larry Long with a goal of a book or series of books.”
My website: http://www.mindfulpoetry.com
My blogs: http://susanbudig.blogspot.com
and http://susanbudigs-poetry.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MindfulPoet
Gather: http://slb2.gather.com
One Child
There was one child left
that day I walked by the playground,
sitting on a see-saw, watching.
I looked in the same direction,
but nothing else caught my eye.
I remembered a game as a youth.
There was one child left
standing, proclaimed the winner!
It was never me.
Like a sentinel, I said nothing.
I continued down the block,
but cast a glance over my shoulder.
There was one child left
on the teeter-totter, but looking lost.
This stops me.
I finger my still-warm pretzel, shoved
in my pocket for when I reach the office.
The child keeps staring at nothing.
There was one child left
on the bench while all the other children
jumped like bunnies around the man
with a generous clutch of balloons
at my son’s birthday party in the park.
That was years ago and we all went home, but no…
there was one child left.
Please leave a response in the comment section. Thanks!
Kimberly Blackadar 
I love how you express the beautiful memories of a innocent, lonely and precious child so found of the outdoors, nature, and play. I encourage you to continue to write the words from your heart and share with the world.
Thanks, Darlene. Thanks for taking time to read my poem here.
Susan
I agree, Darlene. Susan is a gifted poet.
Susan,
I love this poem, but I forgot to add about how you created the form.
So…
The form is called an anapeat. It’ll be the next great trend in the world of poetry. 🙂
You’re pumping up my dreams, Kimberly, with talk like that. 🙂
That is not a bad thing, Susan. I am certain that your dreams will manifest into a reality before too long.
Natural talent goes a long way coupled with dreams…’anything can happen if you let it’ ( Mary Poppins…saw it last night; it was brilliant !! )
I love the varied observations of scenes focusing on a child left out. Some children would grow up scarred, others continue as independent individuals, secure in not needing to be part of a crowd.
‘Anapeat’ ~ such a melodious sound, with powerful vibrations/vibes.
I agree, Marianne. This poem captures an aspect of childhood very well. Thank you for your thoughtful response.