FROM THE MULBERRY

A SHORT INSTRUCTIONAL MANUAL

Don't ask,
"How are you doing?"
or say, as you back down my steps,
"Call if you feel like talking."

Don't comfort me with,
"Time heals,"
"She's an angel now,"
or, "I know how you feel."

Just stop by my house,
sit with me,
sip some tea,
and maybe walk the dog.

SPRING

Icicles loosen swords,
robins begin scouting,
smowmelt rivers down the driveway.
I am not ready

for red and purple tulips
screaming shades of green
that April brings.

I need gray days with heavy rains
to wash away the pain.
But Spring, that pushy neighbor,
has her foot in my door.