Poem February 16, 1987 Issue

That's entertainment!

(An allegory)

Madora McKenzie Kibbe

What a terrible party!
I had invited into my home (my consciousness)
the most loathsome guests—
discouragement, despair, criticism, fear, doubt, darkness. ...
They stayed and stayed.
They wouldn't leave!
They wouldn't shut up!
They ate and ate and ate up
all my inspiration, confidence, joy.

Finally I threw them out, one by one.

What a mess! I sighed, as I looked at the state of my home
(my consciousness).
But I knew I had to clean it up,
so I began, with broom in hand.
Suddenly, a little gratitude came and did the dishes.
Thank you, I murmured.
You're welcome, said expectation, polishing the floor.
Don't mention it, said humor, sliding down the banister
(while dusting).
We like helping out, said humility and patience.
And pretty soon another party, a real celebration
was taking place in my home (my consciousness).