Greenies in Tulum

9 to 70 was the age range,
Our clan gathering, near a Mayan ruin
And a town wanting jets,
Along with tourist dollars.

We had planned a family gathering
But came away with much more.
Of course there was the expected
Incipient divide, all true to their age.

Paul and Julie brought banners,
Green shirts, enough for all,
Emblazoned with our motto,
“Jerry’s Birthday Bash”

We did not exactly incite fear,
Our motley tribe of 9.
Instead we were mistaken
For an all age baseball team.

A 9 year old still sees wonder.
A 12 year old is working on her cynicism.
The adults enjoy a drink
And toast to the shared dinners.

I had been the first to leave,
Now all have traveled
And come together more as names
Than interlocked pieces.

Our time as family is short.
How could it be otherwise?
Hugs all-round in air, soft,
And waters of clear turquoise.

There is a sense of loss
As all make plans
For their tomorrows.
Center stage, never held, can’t be lost.