Transaction

I remember
my first ice cream cone,
the first book
where letters fit together
to create words
I remember writing
my name in large letters
on primary paper
with lines two fingers wide
I remember the times I forgot
to add baking powder,
adding salt instead of sugar

I retrace in my mind
words released without
knowing or questioning
their longevity, words
whose durability
lasts a lifetime

Other words delight
in staying alive—
like I love you


Imagine swapping
one set of words
for another—