Tyler Bartoo

I learned today that my brother and his girlfriend got engaged, and although I knew this was coming it is still wonderful news to hear. As is the case with all brother, he and I have occasionally had our differences over the years. Ultimately I always knew that despite any argument, any disagreement, even if he did not like my choice, my brother would always have my back and he would always be there for me. I’m not sure if I have adequately expressed how important my brother is to me in the past, but I think (and hope) that he knows. My future sister in-law is also a remarkable person. She is a perfect match for my brother. To read the news of there engagement has really touched me. I am not an emotional person, but this is a truly special event. The future for my family has never seemed brighter.     

Jak se Jemunete?

I stand, riding the waves of the metro

As it passes through the underground.

Three seats forward, one left,

     She sits in silence,

Eyes down. I admire

Her calm elegance.

Black boots, leather, black leggings

Running up underneath

Her short skirt. Wrapped above the waist

By her night parka and cobalt scarf

Cascading down

From around her neck.

A lock of golden rays delicately

Shining out from under

Her knit cap.

     Perfectly still,

Immune to the motion

Of the metro

Until Mustek,

Where we stop, and she rises.

Briskly exits as the metro doors

Slide apart, she escaped

Before the metro

Flooded again. I float away,

She is lost, swallowed up

By the salty masses.