Sure thing

(Denver, October 2022)

I am so certain of love 
I am drafting an acceptance speech 
picture this 
Me at the podium 
grasping a bronze plaque, engraved 
“Love Winner”  

“Thank you” I’ll say 
“I am honored” 

I'll wave my hands – hush the crowd 
flushed cheeks 
eyes brimming  
rest the plaque on the podium  
clear my throat, and say it again 
“Thank you 
I’ve waited a long time” 
my audience will giggle in agreement –  
I’m not young 

It'll seem important and natural, first  
to acknowledge my daughter  
who taught me humility 
a crucial component, so  
I may be loved at all 

She will roll her eyes 
I will scan the room for my friends 
“Thank you, 
you held me together 
while I grew into this 
most worthy version” 

I’ll cherish the weight of my award  
as I lift it to my chest and hug it 
uncomfortably tight 

It’ll be embarrassing 
I’ll look to you  
silently smiling 

Obviously, everyone will clap