In the Willow Tree

In the willow tree, I still see us
on our branch scuffed up by our shoes.
You always climbed higher than me,
and now the tree is gone.
You were the only one I could laugh with
'til the tears rolled down our cheeks.
You always ran faster,
and would swim far away from the shore
when I wouldn't dare to.
I still see your fingers
roaming over the keys
of your well worn piano
with ease.
You played with precision,
but I played with feeling
I remember.
You did everything early.
I did everything late.
You used to scold me for that.
I used to wonder what drove you,
and what chased you.
Do you remember it all too?
Playing "restaurant" in your basement,
playing dress up outside the church,
making up songs for the band
we'd have one day,
and naming all our children
poetic names.
I was content.
You were not.
I should've known
you'd be gone, long before me.