Objects in Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear

My casual remark that unknowingly wounds the friend,
who parks her heart on the den mantle next to her son’s urn.

My first love who left for financial solvency.

My oldest son who stormed off weekly; the red tide
of anger finally aged off his face.

My mid-afternoon Macintosh apple core thrown
completely over the trash basket.

My forgotten promise that I would pick up pizza
on my way home from the bookstore.

My neighbor who tried to move his property line six
inches over mine.

My youngest daughter who could amuse herself
at eleven months.

It’s all closer than you think.

Gary D. Grossman
Red Wolf Editions Leaflet #78,
12 September, 2024