TIRES

Two nights ago some low-life slashed my tires.
The car was neatly parked beside the house,
And when I came out I only drove about
A foot before I shouted “Hell Fire!”

Man, was I mad! But after the burst of anger
I felt depressed. Why me? Why single me out?
Some stupid clod. And did be know about
My cancer? Fear was strong and guilt was stronger,

Yet guilt for something I didn’t know. Next day
For insurance papers I checked the police and learned
That forty other cars were slashed and burned.
So today I’m feeling high as a cheese [soufflé].

I’m not alone. I’ve got some company.
Hey, that’s what the cancer group has done for me.

(121, August 13, 1993)

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