Friday, June 5, 2026

Distance


There are seventy-five years

of distance between me,

and the black and white photograph 

of a little boy on a rope swing.



My father, Richard,

made this rope swing;

tied to a high tree branch,

sturdy and strong like he was.


My mother, Lillian,

who took the photo in 1951,

said I was a shy and quiet little boy.


I would like to get

inside his head.

I would like 

to give him a push.

© 2026 Richard Havenga



Photo Location: Ada Township - Kent County - Michigan