I still remember the day
In the pool with the waves
Our parents weren’t around
The lifeguards didn’t see
As you swam for your life
But started loosing

So I came for you
Picked you up
Sank to the floor
Took three steps
And jumped with all my might
Trying to hold you above the water
And repeated until we touched ground
And I held you till they came

And I’ve tried all my life to become Superman
Since we were kids
Someone who could carry the world on their shoulders
And never let it down
But I know I’m flawed: so are you.
I guess that makes us human.

But I’ve made mistakes too
Been too selfish with my time
Too guarded with my love
Too focused on goals
To be fully there
But I hope you knew
Before you were gone
How much of a part
You had in my heart

And I’ve tried all my life to become Superman
Since we were kids
Someone who could carry the world on their shoulders
And never let it down.
But I know I’m flawed: so are you.
I guess that makes us human.

• Poetry