Jim

Odes and modes and swimming

  underwater in poetry, where I am at home; 

your sister's growing a mermaid tail.

  You'll have to visit me in salt water where I

clean up litter and debris along with playing with 

  dolphins, whales, while avoiding sharks.

One day I'll not need to avoid them.

  I'm discovering a fluid, beautiful world.

Knowing you, you won't need a snorkel to dive in. 

  However, if you hold any preconceived notions,

leave them on shore. They have no place in this ocean.

  I read to Orion, Sarie and Zoli, they say... I love you, Mom.

I love you Mom, forever, forever,  --

  even though you're growing a mermaid's tail.

And you...my brother of miraculous wit, a father beyond compare,

  a husband of devotion, a chief of gourmet dishes and wishes, 

a no nonsense teacher with charisma and zaniness...

Your students, sponges from the ocean, need a teacher like you.  

  Just as I need a brother like you too.