my daughter turned sweet 16 
today 
as I race to the grave
barely remembering a time
when there were no problems
I give her a halfhearted smile
wanting to warn her 
not to grow up
but how can I
turn back the hands of time
for her 
or myself
tears come to my eyes
Well, do you feel any older?
she flops down on the bed
next to me 
we watch the ceiling fan 
spin together
No.
She sounds disappointed.
I think to myself
You will one day.