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Why I’m Still Living


1: I would do anything to spend
time with my witty son. Even endure
sickness and a body of pain.
to hear his   voice laugh and tease
give him two rooms, one for sleeping, one for waking
I live to see him stride across the local stage
and I must live to protect him from the snake who attacks without warning,
I must ensure his survival

2: and of course there are my furry cats

3: siblings

4: there is art. and bubbles. trees. grass. daffodils. lilacs. plums. soft fabrics. hot baths. scented candles. there is electricity. piped water. toilets and toilet paper. phones, computers and internet. instant communication. mail that comes. i have purple sheets and blankets. pillows. scented candles. wood fire. a curved couch. money. food. poet friends. art friends, music friends. theater friends. movies. a pool.

last: there’s an infinitesimal chance
you may show up at my door
(you remember where that is)
and give in to your desire.

Ariel