Double-dutch
two ropes twirl like egg-beaters
and I watch
on the outside leaning in
sway to catch the rhythm
wait for that right moment
when the aperture appears.
Take the chance, slip right in
jump one foot, then the other
double-time to the beat
conquer these ropes
or not
misjudge the opportunity
and I’ll be the one
twirling, standing still.
lillian the home poet 
A wonderful metaphor for life. I was always so inept at jump-roping. But my kindergartners were so nimble and loved it. Great memories.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad you liked it. I loved double Dutch! Fun memories indeed and yes, sometimes we need to just jump in! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Morning Lillian.
I love how you used “aperture,” to describe the fleeting opening. What a clever idea 🙂 I read this piece a few times to make sure I grasped the whole of it. Once I had those tricky jump ropes in my head, the perplexing motion – so perfectly imagined here – befuddled me, just as jump ropes and life can do from time to time 🙂
Wonderful poem. I say that quite often whenever I visit here 🙂
Merry Monday to you!
am:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Morning coffee in the laundry room this AM.
Yep — sometimes it’s hard for me to “jump in” and if I don’t, life whirls on by. I used to love Double Dutch jump rope, complete with all the goofy sayings to the rhythm of the jumps.
Have a fabulous day!!
LikeLike
You too, Lillian 🙂
LikeLike
I have not thought of Double-Dutch jump rope for decades, but your descriptive poem took me back to those days. I was never athletic, but I could do Double-Dutch jump rope and that pleased me. The one word “aperture”, I agree with Annmarie, captures the essence of the moment of opportunity to get in. Love this poem, Lill. Joyce
LikeLiked by 1 person
So fun to see your Reply this morning. I would have loved to see you Double Dutch! Waiting now for a call from Aaron et al and will then walk to Bowdin (serves the airport) T to meet them! The house awaits the laughter of kids!!
LikeLike
I haven’t thought of Double Dutch in years. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glad you liked it! Happy to stir up fun memories 🙂
LikeLike