every weekday morning I hear the
pledge of allegiance it’s broadcast
all over the neighborhood by the
school next door, no I don’t
stop what I’m doing composting
the garbage or wiping up a spill to
stand with my hand on my heart
facing the flag the only flag here is
a small one atop a paper umbrella
over the stove unless in july when
one is always on the calendar but
there’s no daily pledge in july I do
though in my heart join in wishing
a happy birthday to every child
announced and hoping she or he
will receive a natal day present not
flimsy or plastic that will break by
bedtime or has too many pieces
prone to loss and that that special
kid is cherished today and every day
This article appears in Nov 7-13, 2013.
