A first draft
It's Better to Give Than to Receive
I’ve never stood over
a casket and thought perfect
nothing more to say
we’ve run our course. not once
has the reaper arrived right
on time. too early or too late,
his surprises set off freeway pileups,
no comedic timing, no ability
to read the room, like the student
I had who made a list
of all she didn’t like about me,
as if I had anything to do with it.
It was never about me. I shuffle
my feet same as you, heart in my throat
just like you.