SMILE, SAY CHEESE!

Here’s my Dad at my age,
in much happier times …

Maybe it was the economy
and a delicious piece of
German Chocolate cake?

But I’m not the Cake Boss,
No, I’m Colby Jack Ass—

I’ve reached my expiration date.

And I, to be that naive,
to bite into a bad piece
of moldy cheese.

Do me a favor, I suggested,
hire one food inspector
to decide each item’s fate.

Here’s my Dad … at my age,
with Mom … out of the picture
for all the right reasons, together,
strong as the sunrise, more heat
then my short-wicked candles
flamed-out 16 years earlier.

A prearranged activity,
whose planner does not shed
a single tear, but snaps the picture:

Year After Year After Year
After Year After Year After
Year After Year After Year
After Year After Year After
Year After Year After Year
After Year After Year After
Year After Year After Year

until boredom kills the effort,
until I say cheese no more.


*Currently listening to Cowboy Junkies "You Will Be Loved Again" from the caution horses.