Taking my first wobbly steps,
holding onto the maze of ropes.
Speaking my first unsure words,
"Papa! Papa! Papa!"

Learning to ride my tricycle,
up again even with scraped knees.
The first day of school,
so afraid of meeting new people.

Playing hockey in the streets,
who cared if the people got angry?!
Climbing the highest trees,
just to see a clear view of the sky.

Walking to school halls,
thinking we were the coolest.
Late nights and long summers.
Making new friends only to lose them again.

Dating the older guys,
because they're oh so mature. Ha.
Growing up with broken hearts,
broken promises and losing sleep.

Breaking into the "rebel" scene,
drinking the nights away.
Holding a constant cigarette,
"unique" tattoos and piercings.

Leaving old friends and memories,
running away from this quaint suburban town.
Making my way in the city of angels,
looking for the perfect adventure.

Finally settling down and falling in love,
marriage, kids, and a new house.
Continuing the same plans,
until we're left alone.

Days turn into weeks,
which turn into months,
and on into years.
Always the same.

These wrinkles show the passing time,
our hands always entwined.
We've lived a long life.
and now it's time to go.

Death is knocking on the door,
and I see Grim's face.
We walk into the light
and everything fades away.

This is growing up.

And this.  is.  the end.