All Gone

After a losing battle with a chocolate ice cream cone,

“All gone” was the cheer that marked the cessation of hostilities.

Paul’s face would hold the remnants of the victor's army.

Good-Humor is no longer, but kids can still battle ice cream cones.

In cases of splinters, mosquito bites, or dark closets

That might hold evil creatures.

Salve, tweezers or a flash light

Could summon relief : “All gone”.

Sadly, life’s journey can’t sustain us

With “open sesames” or Dad’s incantations.

We cease running down hills because

Only children do that... pity.

When I was young I played with children’s toys.

Now that I am grown I miss the magic... All gone.