We watched the toy train
on rails up near the ceiling
in circles at a fast-food place
bringing fascination to the little girl
"Look Dad, it's in the tunnel"
A hug from me seals her feelings
as I share the love in her eyes
Existing in perpetuality
like a flawless uncut diamond
brighter than the Kohinoor

I give no further thought.
The dog vying for attention
leaps into my arms
secured in his safety, his tail wagging
my arms sheltering
but short lived
once again ready to run
the larger dog no longer a threat.

I coax him in doggie language
as he sits tilting his head
Like a wise old man
catching the words
etched in his mind: "Go fetch"
Fetch what?
How could he chase a train
so far up there retreating?
Better to wait
for the girl to come out
offer him a treat

Sometimes in the evening when I am alone
I listen but never hear
as she comes to me
Her security blanket
pulled from my arms
The lightning too powerful
for me to stop
I remain in my recliner
trying to write in her diary
the pages ruffling in the wind
inviting me to fill
that which never can be filled

I wait for the train
getting further away into the skies
waiting for her to dismount
But time struggles forward
The dog stops barking
turning away
I follow, leaving my heart behind
Missing her

The miracle never happens.