The Bravest Child

I want my child to be the bravest child.

Not only the one who goes first, for example,

Down the darkest, scariest path at camp, to

Part and pass under the bangs of willows, the shadowy oaks,
Past the boogeyman,

But be also the one who is kind.

Once you calm your raging heart and enter the unknown 

Be the one who will pivot back towards the next in line

Smile, and tell your friends,

"You can do it."

Illusions, Refusal

Near the end of the month
a new doctor,  a new prognosis
a new game.

What if she says
"3 months."

I shift my head, I look away.
I will not accept it.

As if we are negotiating.
As if I am buying--
then decide not to buy it.