This summer, like the past, is the same again,
But now it smothers me in sweat and strain,
Leaving me thirsty for shade and rain,
As the sky dissolves under the sun's fiery reign.

I closed my eyes and strolled down memory's lane,
Where, as a child, I felt summer's bliss again,
Unafraid of sunshine on my face that scorch pain,
But never let the tropic sun turn my day to bane.

I remember butterflies,...