A 1,000 Voices

i like to watch as old friends fade
my suhottie, just pulling off
into the sunset, easing out
cowgirl style
west to california
bellies full of indian goodness,
hearts full of memories,
and mouths aching with catching up

i like to watch old friends fade
robin making her way
from my third story floor
in pouring rain, rushing
to get into her car and drive
back to louisville,
bellies full of bourbon,
hearts full of aching,
and mouths tired from talking

i like to watch old friends fade
annie disappearing into the
mid-western crowds for an
east coast bound flight
bellies full of ulcers,
hearts full of good deeds
and mouths sore with complaining
about the legacy of a presidency

i like to watch old mothers fade:
a momma’s face growing dim
in the porch light as the uhaul
fades out of sight
into the dark night en route
to cincinnati,
bellies full of butterflies
hearts full of hopes
and mouths full of prayers