Between Bruises & Blooms

He doesn’t follow paths.

He investigates them.

Every branch
must be climbed.

Every puddle
must be inspected.

Every bridge
must be crossed
at least three different ways.

He asks questions
the trees can’t answer
and waves at birds
like they’re old friends.

Some children
are raised by stories.

Theo
looks like he’s helping
write new ones.