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.