Your friends

Some of us

will push and push to get closer

others

will nudge gently and give up

but I don't try to do either

I want to wait patiently until you let me in

closer

before you close up

and push us all away.

They follow you

because you're likable,

you're fun and you have a good balance of fun and seriousness.

You know when to stop

when to turn back before you cross the line

you understand our language

like when other kids look at this chaotic clump of kids that looks like a cage fight

when really it's just us

a weird friend group

that loves you

and wishes the best for you

and wants you to keep growing up

even though it'll mean separation from the 8th graders

but it exposes you to new possibilities

and the last day of school will be rough

but if you let us closer

you'll have more of the support

more of the bonding

that you could use?