Growing up

our house, like many out there
lives on the noise we make
someone talks loudly, someone calls for lunch
someone asking to be quiet, its noon we need a nap
as we lay in the living room, the three sofas are taken for a bed.
Years ago, we were kids, now the younger ones are taller than me
Telling them to do something is never the case, why, an explanation is always due
Going out for dinner is never easy now,
Everyone has an opinion, something they’re craving, something they’re avoiding
Ceding is never on the table.
On a summer’s long afternoon
While the setting sun takes its time
Melting the sky in warm honey,
I sit with mama in the living room, sipping lemon ginger tea
The house is silent, but a burst of laughter, or is it a cry
Heard somewhere in the house
Somewhere hidden between the walls.