Swift and Sudden Change

My brother used to get the biggest presents,

Shiny plastic remote control cars that he would wreck

Within the same week. 

My brother used to be the center of attention. 

Any holiday was spent talking sports stats 

What teams he would be joining

What scouts may be looking for. 

My brother used to be my enemy. 

I resented his natural strength and ability, 

I turned away from his banter and 

Locked myself away, a dark room in my mind.

My brother used to be my friend. 

I remember the hours we would explore

The forest near our house,

Stay up late and watch scary movies 

Our parents would not dream of letting us see. 

My brother used to be my home. 

We would skateboard around town,

Catching fireflies and going to bonfires,

Stars twinkling above our heads 

During a midnight soccer match

With the other kids that lived on the street, 

My brother used to be here, 

And I miss him.