Gone too Soon

It all started in summer.
I beheld you, so pure, so full of life and color.
We skipped to recess hand in hand.
Jumped off swings.
Climbed up trees,
And built castles in the sand.

You told me you felt fall coming.
Not seeing the wear on your sneakers,
Or what you were outrunning,
I told you I was excited for the changing of leaves.

I wish I could tell you how pretty the snow was in winter,

Or how my world went cold without you.

All I have left of you is the knowledge of what I should do with another birthday check.
With another season.
With another year away from you.