Hopscotch or leapfrogging
At once, sturdy on two legs, at another, teetering unsteady on one
Arms flapping headless chicken 
Over under over under, up top rock bottom, hair on fire.
Always why and never why.
Swings hinging back and forth chainlinks groan to glee.
Seesaws precipice fulcrums iambic meter
One foot succeeds its predecessor unknowing 
What heights and depths follow.
A rubberband, taut and slack,
Slinging emotions; elated and overwrought 
Deviation peeling grip from constancy.  

Awaken my memory; crisis or carousel, you’re near. 
But while he was still a long way off his father saw him 
You see me. 
When I’m distant, draw me close. 
Warm breath carries over sandpaper chin.
Let me listen closely to your words 
I will never leave you nor forsake you.
Synapses springing ethereal pulses between our bodies 
A father, palms as big as ribcages 
Trampolines me up and down, up and down
Moon bouncing on his belly.
A promise: Daddy’s here.