Work Text:
The rules aren't written down
Said the lady with the mittens.
One red, one green, frayed at the cuffs
Red checkered apron over sweats and boots.
-----
Whoever gets up first
Even if the snow still falls
Cleans their neighbors' walks
Sweeps their porches.
They'll hear the sound of your shovel
Scraping the sidewalk. Hit the snooze,
and turn back into a dream.
Ten more minutes. A gift.
-----
When someone waves, wave back.
Better yet, wave first.
When someone smiles, smile back
Better yet, smile first.
Or nod. Bear witness to
the soul walking by
Even when they frown in silence
And turn away.
----
When the kids empty
into your street to run a ball
On a no-traffic Sunday
Nothing but asphalt.
Not enough room or
people for a real game.
You wave at them, move your car.
Give them space to play. To be kids.
And if you still have that arm,
High school letterman, still proud,
Throw the ball, let them run for it.
Show them a trick or two.
-----
Leave zucchini and tomatoes and strawberries
On their porches, in season, in brown paper bags.
Pretend to be surprised when they share the news.
"You must have a secret friend. I'm jealous!"
Puts a smile on their face the rest of the day.