Hi, there… Just a heads-up to subscribers.
Tomorrow, around noon, we’re publishing the May Anniversary Issue of MPNforum Magazine.We’ll send out a general notice later in the afternoon.
This little poem by Arnie is in the issue but we thought we’d share it with you now, about the time dishes are done….and you might be taking a break.
Do check out the Forum tomorrow at http://www.mpnforum.com and let us know what you think.
Have a good evening,
Zhen
(Arnie’s poem can also be seen here: https://mpnforum.com/poetry-corner-take-a-break/)
Take a Break
by Arnie McConnell
He realized he liked washing dishes,
standing at the sink,
smelling the suds,
feeling the warmth
of water on his forearms.
They had weakened, the arms,
more than a little in recent years.
But, those noodly things
had just worked out in the yard,
for many hours, only that day.
Less purpling in the fingertips,
he thought, as he considered
his work hands,
feeling the plates.
He remembered how shrill those
arm nerves had been.
What had caused it?
A pinched nerve in his neck?
PV?
All he knew that evening was:
he felt better. Yes, better.
(It’s no shame to feel better.
No one will dock points.)
His little-boy nephew, Matt,once told him,
when asked about
an uncharacteristic silence over dessert,
“I’m thinkin’ about my yife.”
Matt’s now forty.
I’m thinkin’ about my yife, too, Matt.
According to a recent book (Mukherjee)
Cancer is still a tough nut.
And, a guy in the know says
that I have leukemia.
Yet, I’m feeling better, taking a drug
that sounds like a character from Crete,
with a little antifreeze added.
O, god of the back lawn,
praise this hero.
Allow his mind to wander.
Turn down his radar.
Support him in his quest
for elegant light.
The dishes are done.
I’m tired.
Good-night.
MPNforum Magazine 
Comments on: "Take a break" (2)
Arnie:
You created such a beautiful meaning out of something so ordinary like washing dishes. I, too, like to wash dishes. Presently, I sit on my stool doing it. I like the feeling of the warm water, the suds, and result of cleaning something so sparkling that was once soiled. I like the sound and the warmth of the water on my hands. You are such a good poet. With all of our health circumstances, it is good to joy in the simple things! Being grateful for little joys will keep us keeping on! Wishing you many blessings!
Anne
Arnie
I thought I was the only one who liked to wash dishes. The suds, the warm water, and the view from my kitchen window. Yard work is a different story. Your way with words is impressive. Thank you.