Handbook

I keep a small book

very close to me, it’s

covered in brown parcel paper

like an old school book

untitled, no graffiti, no scrawl

no innocent declarations

of endless love,

it keeps me sane

reminds me what’s

important, what’s real

in these God-forsaken

nervous days,

I can open any page

and feel renewed, clearer

to lead a simpler life.

*

© Graham R Sherwood 08/22