“Goodbye” - 3rd Place - Jennifer Jones

GOODBYE - THIRD PLACE

Jennifer Jones*

I watched you, As you savagely Crammed some of your belongings Into Hefty trash bags, With no regard for the items. You spewed filthily remarks Aimed in my direction.

I watched you, Hurry around the house Rapidly collecting everything that belongs to you, But careful enough So, you leave nothing behind. You were dragging your black trash bags Across my chocolate hardwood floor. I watched you, As your reckless bag Crashed the alter, And spilled our photo Encased in sterling silver Etched with love

I watched you, Twist the brass doorknob Which led to your escape. So eager to getaway You forcibly opened the screen door.

I watched you, Try and balance oversized trash bags One in each hand, As you swayed side to side Like uneven weight On a balance scale.

I watched you, Trip over a rock Stumble forward Lose your footing Release your trash bags Smack the concrete, And look back at me.