May 2024
Bio Note: I am Lucky Lumpkin, new to poetry and eager to learn from the poetry community. I am being taught poetry from whom I consider a master, Stellasue Lee. I have been writing a mid-grade novel for years, so when the opportunity to learn from Stellasue Lee came along, I knew it would greatly benefit me. To my surprise I love poetry, learning about myself and others through writing is a new passion I will continue to pursue.
Flirting With Time
I have four dates in the mornings,
5AM, 6AM, 7AM
and finally,
the last caller- 8AM.
5AM is overly ambitious,
he rattles the door to my subconscious,
excitedly listing what can be done first-
Meditate, exercise, walk the dog, floor plans.
I feel my brow furrow,
too many options.
I turn away rudely,
closing my cosmic door in his face.
6AM is more practical,
“Let’s start with mediation,” he says.
“The sun's up now, you’ll be so happy you chose me.”
But 6AM didn’t count on the dog getting in bed,
she offers warm snuggles that are undeniably
the best option.
I smile at 6 and tell him,
maybe tomorrow.
7AM sings me awake,
assured I will choose him.
I throw the covers off,
hand still on the dog.
“Just a moment 7,
let me gather my thoughts.”
7AM leaves,
I’ve made him wait too long.
His cousin 7:45 AM arrives.
He says gently,
“I’m no 8, but would you want to go out with me?”
He is kind, not demanding,
encouraging me that I will still get it all done.
All the tasks that the early morning
guys insisted wouldn’t get accomplished without their lead.
I join 7:45 to watch the sun
come through the trees.
8AM rings my bell,
but he is late.
I turn him away.
I have a date.
©2024 Laksmi Lucky Lumpkin
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