At the outdoor patio
Of my neighborhood coffee shop
I overhear a man saying,
Hi, Mom – how’re you doing?
Into his phone.

There’s a lilt of enthusiasm
In his voice as he asks
Sounding genuinely curious
To know the answer
And hear her story.

I wish I could dial 914-725-1436
And know that you’d pick up
I wish I could hear your voice
I’m finally open and ready
To hear your story.

February 7, 2025