Keep It
I’m sorry
for holding your heart
hostage
inside my open coffer
because
for years I took it out
and held it clumsily
cracking it with sharp words
dropping it, maybe
on purpose
then mocking its fragility
You begged me to be more careful
but I didn’t
time and stubbornly time again
giving it back to me
I never promised I would
because I couldn’t
Keep it this time
scarred up
for a more reverent guardian
I’m sorry I wasn’t
**
Unpacking
The cruel irony is
the 50 boxes bursting
the yellowing tape
holding the memories
Scream
You can take it
with you because
objects don’t just
disappear
like some people do
intent to remind
and to continue
breaking, like china cups
fragile hearts
**
Field Goal
one strong leg
rises up to thwack
the laced brown missile
launched between the
familiar targets
the path veered
left stunning
everyone as if
whispering winds
blew
right (left?) on cue
**
Pine
Windblown snow of
winter’s wild, unpredictable season
tiny tornadoes sweep
disturbing the calm field
One small tree, grounded
roots firmly planted
bending, shivering
thin trunk recoiling in pain
the harsh fury
frigid whipping ceased
as quickly as it began
The tree regains its dignity
upright and stronger
This brave tree has endured
its first storm
