Autumn

 
Finally, falling like paratroopers,
the leaves are blanketing the ground

and the piles are starting to take shape
and I want to kick and jump into the biggest

heaps, like I did when I was a child,
a rather mischievous one the more I recollect.

The world is a mess, but then it’s always been,
tragedies ongoing no matter how I write

against them. Yet soon I’m putting on my shoes,
a light jacket and making the plunge once again,

maybe kicking and jumping less this time
as I reconnoiter the area for the most beautiful

leaf for a most beautiful bookmark.
What have I been waiting for all these years?

*

The Agenda

 
Amidst the busyness of the city
I buy a hot dog from a street vendor
and eat it slowly on my way home.

My wife having arrived ahead of me
will be simmering a healthier fare.

I pick up my steps when I see myself
falling into her arms and the last
bite of the hot dog feels exquisite.

If I were any happier they’d have
to arrest me—they know where I live.

***

(Featured image from Pexels)