An eccentric young woman

descends polished wooden stairs

in stockings, with light, bouncy steps

full of energy.

A vision of distinct individuality,

her presence dares adults to defy mediocre lives.

Disconnect from adolescent bravado

emerges among those present

with each exotic footfall into the room.

Dreams and confidence of childhood

are shown to have settled into a run-of-the-mill existence

as this odd creature breezes in.

Porcelain skin is smooth and glowing.

Dark eyes lead to deep pools of creative knowledge

and foreign thought.

Turquoise blue and vibrant purple hair

shines.

Side ponytails curl and twist

with her movements.

A gentle teal ocean kiss to her shoulder on one side,

a violet jolt on the other.

A feminine lacy black dress juxtaposes a puffy white rabbit’s tail

peeking out from under

the hem of a black military coat.

With a quick shrug, a stegosaur backpack is over her shoulders.

Pink, orange, brown and yellow spikes

protrude from her back.

A surprisingly deep and husky voice reveals an ancient soul

inside a youth’s body.

In one throaty breath she says a quick hello and good-bye,

making no apology for her brevity.

An air of mystery is left in her wake.

Thoughts of her unusual tail and unique character

bring a smile

and a moment of wistful longing

for lost youth.