As I Stood To Speak

by Amy Eliot

As I stood to speak
the room full of poets
what was I supposed to say
the words locked away
so tight

What do you say to a man
emotionally insecure as
sincere as he can be

In front of his friends and family
this tiny gathering expected
to provide meaning
for a man who wants
to fly

He scratches around and
pulls in friends he can find
the kids constant reminders of
the responsibilities of life

His wife and daughter jealous
green of the deep sense of spirit
in the man and the boy
real or perceived

And all of us trying to give him
what he wants and needs
attention and care
all of us sensing it's not enough

Wishing we had spent more time
been more careful about our
gifts to the altar of the bird

Copyright © Amy Eliot 2003