For My First Wife, While Married to My Second

It has been a long time since we sat down
to green bean casserole. I hope Richard
has recovered. Emily and I have finally settled
meaning I'm tired now and safe
but mostly, in trouble. It's not that I wish
differently. It's not that I miss the money.
It's just that—the children have started
their sledding, the snow has gotten them out
of the house and yesterday, I spotted you
at the super market touching the nectarines,
looking like you couldn't put your mind
on something you needed. If we never speak again,
that would be fine—honestly, I have nothing to say.
But maybe you do. And maybe I could sit with my arms
unfolded, kind-of closing my eyes. I mean,
I'd like to hear you without hearing myself.
I mean, if you needed butter to borrow,
if you came up short, maybe, I would have it,
That's all, that's all I want to say.

Copyright © 2006 Christopher Goodrich All rights reserved
from 5AM
Reprinted by Verse Daily® with permission