My Swing

The mango tree was loved
The swing that hung from it, even more so
Rough ropes on a flimsy piece of wood
Worn over time and softened

The branches, rope, and wood worked together
To hold the weight of my five-year-old body
The humid heat was eased from the breeze
That was created from the push of my little feet

The simple joy of floating off the ground
Even if just for a moment
Was enough to entertain my innocent mind
Memories are etched into that flimsy piece of wood
Along with my laughter and trivial tears

But I gave you away
When I travelled across the ocean
Swings aren’t the easiest thing to fit in a suitcase

You hang now on different branches
The comfort you gave me shared
New memories created
Another’s life you will be a part of
But your place in my heart will never be taken