Dear Future

You’re one step ahead of me
At every turn. The shy, silent type,
You prefer the back booth,
Candle-lit, out of sight
But within striking distance.
For the longest time,
I thought you couldn’t speak,
But the past told me you
“choose not to.”

Give me one evening, you and me alone,
Over beers, and let’s be frank.
Tell me straight to my face.
Will I get the promotion?
The convertible? The cute little bungalow
On the bay? Will I live to kiss my grandchildren’s
Children? Will this knee really have to be
Replaced? Will I see 80? Will I go
Before my wife?

But you blend into dusk, the night,
The city, and I’m left to watch shadows
Stretch out under a full moon.
We’ll meet, I’m sure,
At least once more
At a time of your choosing.
I’m warning you now:
Be ready to duck.


ISBN 1-59661-003-4
22 pages $9