Retiring In the Country

He often thought of life in the country.

The classroom rules left behind,

The unpleasant colleagues left behind,

He often thought that he would find in the country

Long mornings and afternoons, quiet, pleasant,

Filled with good reading, clear thinking, and

From time to time a visit with neighbors,

Neighbors rich with stories,

Rich with genuine joys and sorrows,

Neighbors who whirred stories and tomatoes,

Who would not dwell on great issues,

Who would not question him

About the Trinity or the meaning of life, and

Aftr visiting with neighbors

He would return to the linoleum-floored home,

Welcomed by his books, welcomed by the house.

--November 26, 2013