Friendly No Longer Say

separation
mind and soul
distance foreseen
early on - truth
around campfires told
inside spirits dwell,
protagonist
goes awry...
duty calls seldom
gates are fastened
mouths closed,
loyal to the end
is shared at
meal's end...
fitting are we today,
tomorrow and the
next - hopefully
joined by family
when friends think
for themselves,
odd man out
ladies too
no discrimination
here in this shoe,
save the memories
passed along
one by one,
in line standing
available are
no seats here or
anywhere these days
since the cold
swept out warmth
and belonging 
brought the dogs.

December 15, 2025