Flora
Flora held her head up high
and her neck very straight.
Her dark hair never quite touched
her shoulders
but framed her face
in a way that asked you directly
and completely-
What have you brought
to this table?
Her eyes were as shiny
as tap dance shoes
just as sharp and quick.
She never needed you.
Not for a single moment.
Not even that time
when you thought maybe there was
some weakness in the knees.
No.
Flora had strong knees
capable legs
a deliberate path.
She'd never
not in a million hazy, drunken years
let you walk her home.
Do not mourn this.
Be grateful.
You’d never be able
to keep up with her
anyway.