When homework hollers its beckon call,

That’s when I look to the photographs on the wall.

There’s one of Dad and one of Mom

They sing to me like my favorite psalm.

There’s one from Christmas with Papa Claus;

Memories of a special “grandfather’s job.”

There’s some of me, a young born,

In the arms of those I now mourn.

The compassion and love I most certainly digested

Are enduring qualities of which I now spread.

I spy one of me and big little brother

One of many taken of us together.

I spy one of the family I left behind

To spend a few months challenging my mind.

For now, I have photographs to keep me sane;

And plenty of letters to dull the pain.

My dear pup, your sleepy exterior warms my heart,

As I recall this time sadly spent apart.

Hey you, high school buddies whom I miss,

Time spent with you was sheer bliss.

Plenty of new additions exhibit Williams grandeur:

Frosh Formal, Mountain Day, and Stone Hill’s verdure.

Finally, my dear long distant lover,

Remember those polaroids from last summer

Or those snaps from December?

One look at them and my body shudders,

Like the lens of a camera, looking out,

Capturing the moments without a doubt.

No shame in hoping for spring and rain

Just to have you back again.

For now, we wait for the days like clockwork

Time covered with procrastination of homework.

I long for Mom, and Dad, and little brothers

I wait for brighter and happier, lighter colors.

I am stronger, not whole, but still tough,

And the photographs just seem to be enough.

Enough to keep me going today.

Enough to keep me going tomorrow.

Enough to simply get me through.

Now I suppose and now I guess,

I have some work I really should address.

Happy Valentine's Day!