I remember
the beginning
the flash of light
and
maternal cries of anguish.
I remember
being comforted
searching for a hug
sometimes
flinching from opprobrium.
I remember
Fifties California
driving among stately Fan Palms
surrounding
glistening orange groves.
I remember
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre
gaping at the Cinemascope screen
swept up
by the magic lantern.
I remember
Balboa beaches
swimming alone at sunrise
experiencing
baptism in the frothy surf.
I remember
peak experiences
dancing “beneath the diamond sky
with
one hand waving free”.
I remember
optimistic America
feeling lucky
always
expecting the best.
