Holds Water

A fire hydrant stands, vivid red in the gray,

a sentinel marking the rhythms of play.

Peeling paint tells tales of summers long past,

holding onto memories, shadows are cast.

It waits for the splashes of laughter and cheer,

a burst of connection that brings people near.

In the stillness, it guards against all that can burn,

an unwavering promise, for which we all yearn.

Amidst the dull drab of the urban sprawl,

it stands out like hope, calling forth one and all.

A beacon of courage, in the heat of the day,

a fire hydrant whispers, we’ll find our way.