While the rec room
takes deep breaths
with everyone getting ready to perform,
I peek out the door and into the gym
to see if anyone is actually here yet.
It’s full.
Parents, grandparents, teachers,
everyone dressed in Giants jerseys
and hats, the Covenanteers
handing out cookies
and Dixie cups of Crystal Light.
I walk over to get a cup for Malia,
and then, near the front,
already seated, I see them:
my grandfather, Mrs. Li, Mr. Cohen,
and more empty seats.