OVER COBBLESTONES

Walk tenderly over cobblestones

history is remembered

embedded in sand and mortar 

Soles of toddlers' feet

have balanced 

over gray stones

Mothers’ kisses have healed

a scraped knee 

skinned on corners between ruts

Horseshoed hooves

have trotted 

their rhythmic metallic beat 

Wheels have spun 

over smooth polished stone

Bumpety bump bump

Carts, carriages, and cars

have signaled their approach

each in its era

Stones have remembered

each century’s souls 

as soles have trod across

So, walk tenderly over cobblestones 

for history repeats herself

lest we forget 

Mother, son, father, daughter

tourist, soldier, neighbor,

king, peasant, and sojourner 

Walk tenderly over cobblestones

honor the steps of the past

pave the way for steps of the future

2023 Lauri Cruver Cherian