Paler than the moon
Of the last summer day,
Of sitting under and staring at it,
Flowing with its kind light.

Brighter than the sun
Of a springtime sunrise,
Beaming with an awakening brilliance,
Reaching into blue endlessness.

Warmer than summer afternoons
Of dancing through sprinkler sprays
And eating popsicles that drip,
While running barefoot in the grass.

Lighter than happy hearts
That bubble over with laughter,
Joyous and free and true,
Escaping with the balloons released.

Softer than the fur
Of the kitten on your lap
That I reach over to pet,
Its purr easily audible.

Paler, brighter, warmer, lighter, softer,
Are my memories with you, my old friend,
Of these days long past
But still in my heart.