your coat

A childhood I didn't have

I wrote this for a contest. It’s pure fiction. My Gen X childhood was not cozy, warm, or sentimental. But still … we writers dream.

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your coat

red and black plaid

fleece-lined

steel buttons

fuzzy pockets

filled with

hidden treasures

candy wrappers

sticky pennies

crushed flowers

gifts from me

your daughter

your best girl

.

your coat

a magician’s cape

your smile

a pirate’s secret

your outstretched hand

an adventurer’s invitation

let’s go on a walk

to see

trolls grumbling under bridges

fairies dancing through grass

mermaids whispering from the river

.

your coat

so much like you, Dad

soft as campfire marshmallows

sturdy as ancient oak trees

holder of dreams

wishes

stories

I wear it, and

yes, it’s too big

engulfs me

with familiar scents

sandalwood soap

earthy beard oil

peppermint gum

.

your coat

pillowed furrows hide tears

sorrow smooths the fabric

fingers worry threadbare cuffs

Dad

you are here

right here

soul-deep comfort

heart-full warmth

a forever hug

.

your coat

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