So, What’s New?

Everyone knows January first is new

To me, new means

That sweet scent of a just born baby’s head

The smell and crackle of book pages never read by anyone before me

That book bag my Mom made from scrap material, filled with school supplies

And a box of 48 Crayolas, sharpened and still whole in their wrappers,

That new car smell, not tainted by body sweat, dropped fries

Or that horsey smell of a virgin hardball, leather and stitching tight,

That coffee-air hiss that escapes from a bag just opened

Or the sharp pop and fizz of a Pepsi can before the bubbles are gone,

That bright green of young leaves on Benjamin Ficus

And the sun’s rising through clouds that promise a better day

Or golfing, where there are 18 chances to begin again

And the most exhilarating, the feeling of flying when I fall in love.