Time is a child
busy with his own play,
glancing occasionally
towards the grown-ups
(to check that they are there).
Give him a smile
sometimes. Do not speak
when he looks your way.
Do not interfere.
After a little while
(or longer) perhaps
he’ll come, and lay
gently in your lap
his favourite toy
for you to enjoy
a little, not keep.
He’ll take it back again
but then
you’ll know that you and he are friends.