Short Cartridges Poems

I live in a family
who can't keep an umbrella
a flashlight
flour
superglue
post its
ink cartridges
ice cubes
ice cream cones

who can't find
checkbooks
gift cards
phone cords
appt reminders

who never has
extra cash
maps
penny rolls 
the doctors number
the date of surgery
a camera

so we're always
wet 
hungry
cold
late 
early
lost
behind
thirsty...

Read More

I want to be a hero and
go to heaven.
I want twenty three virgins and a palace made of brick and mortar;

But our leader says I am too young yet to strap justice to my chest and die for Allah.

So patiently I reload spent cartridges and make beds and prepare food for my brothers.
brothers who march to what fate may greet them.

Death come like splinters from a soft-speaking man with a massive stick.

          -For my friend Sgt. Brian Smith...

Read More