August 2017
Perry S. Nicholas
perrynicholas53@aol.com​
I am a Professor of English at Erie Community College North in Buffalo, N.Y.  I have 5 books, 4 chapbooks, and 1 CD of poetry. I am married to Maria Sebastian, a well-known singer/songwriter, and we perform our poetry and music together at many venues in the WNY area. For more information please visit my website: www.perrynicholas.com

Seventy-Seven Steps                      
A visit to the cemetery on Father’s Day 2017
 
My Fitbit shines unexpectedly,
like the summer moon from behind smoky clouds,
showing it’s seventy-seven steps
 
from my car to your stone bed.
I count the days when it will take
too much effort to make the trip,
 
carry clear memories in my heart,
no more cigarettes to offer you anymore.
I recall when you could no longer drive,
 
legs so swollen you could barely walk,
while I shuffle towards you unevenly,
favoring my writing arm, slung down.
 
The path seems longer, my words shorter,
but I still have one full-functioning limb.
I guess it’s just enough to plant this small poem. 
©2017 Perry S. Nicholas
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