Holding on to the end of a string

A tassel on a cap to match my gown

It is time for an end and yet I grasp

The past four years wondering if they are present.

Holding on to the end of a thread

Pulling it away from the unraveling bracelet

It falls from my wrist like friendship to it's end

But I reach out for the thread one more time before it is gone.

Holding on to the end of a ribbon

A rich green tied in a young girl's hair

Keeping precious curls in order during Christmas dinner

My heart lingers on the day that has passed on.

Holding on to the end of a rope

A strong chord wrapped around a tree that has over stretched

Meeting its limits though I would cling to it,

Keep it in its place rather than look back, reminisce.

Holding on the end of a hair

A gray strand that must have emerged sometime ago

Different than the others it strikes me as I note the day

As the close of all youth.