The piano opens
her favorite song...
the soothing, melodic notes
of a different era
...
Like a flip of a switch
and
shutdown
visions and voices fade
...
The world is full of unhappy places,
For only the rich can stuff their faces...
Africa, to be most specific,
has food supply no-so -terrific
...
'You know, Mom... you could write
a poem about chrysanthemums..
I like chrysanthemums.'
...
Parents, your duty calls...
the mission is one amazing feat
One that requires great skill with
all the responsibilities you will meet
...
Close your eyes
Inhale
imagine your lungs
filling with life giving air
...
ears ringing
it's all drowned out anyway
from the hum of my car
as it accelerates,
...
One less chair
One missing presence
One no longer there
Another wishing penance
...
If I could make you happy
by surrounding you with beautiful things
I'd plant for you a magnificent garden
to make your birthday as beautiful as Spring
...
I love my men-friends
This I really have to tell...
I've really have to thank them-
for without them life would be hell!
...