Indian Giver

Years ago, in Budapest,
I bought ceramic mugs
As presents for my son and wife;
They thanked me and gave hugs.

The pottery was quite unique;
I bought some for myself,
Which sits there in my kitchen
On a front-and-center shelf.

I couldn’t carry too much home
But always did regret
I didn’t buy myself a mug
(Or two, to make a set).

Yet since that time, my son has bought
Ceramics of his own.
His coffee cup collection
Has considerably grown.

The gift mugs are no longer used;
They’re stored way out of sight.
I knew if they were on display,
They’d bring me great delight.

Could I possibly reclaim them?
It’s a practice that’s taboo
(Which I’m well-aware my title,
Very not P.C., is, too).

But my son was very gracious – 
Wrapped them so they wouldn’t break
And they’re hanging in my kitchen now,
Correcting my mistake.

I won’t do this again
Though I am glad I had the nerve
To speak up, for these two mugs
Bring out my smiles on reserve.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Wolf Avatar
March 12, 2025 at 7:40 PM
Good for you! No guts, no glory!!
Bauer Avatar
March 16, 2025 at 4:48 PM
ha! guess i have the guts after all, gershon!
M  Avatar
March 10, 2025 at 4:44 AM
Great poem ilene and of course you should have asked… it is your family and if they don't use them why not….l am glad you have those mugs and they bring you joy my friend! Debx
Bauer Avatar
March 16, 2025 at 4:47 PM
thanks, deb! at this point in my life, i need all the joy i can get and sometimes it's the little things that work the best...
Borke Avatar
March 9, 2025 at 5:19 PM
You made me curious. Please post a picture. I keep Malissa and Doug’s lizard watering can on my kitchen counter for the same reason.
Bauer Avatar
March 16, 2025 at 4:45 PM
hey hannah! i don't know how to post a picture here, but one mug has owls on it and the other one has very cute dragons (if you can visualize that) and they are really very special...
Mckeithan Avatar
March 9, 2025 at 4:49 PM
Good you asked. Your son is a gracious person. Nice one
Bauer Avatar
March 16, 2025 at 4:46 PM
yes, he is! i still felt weird asking him, but he was glad i asked, too...
Lane Avatar
March 9, 2025 at 2:48 PM
If ya don't ask... I'm glad you asked, and your son responded by giving you the mugs. At least now they'll be seen and enjoyed.
Bauer Avatar
March 16, 2025 at 4:46 PM
i'm glad, too, lin! i smile every day when i see them...
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