I wrapped some clothes and my favorite toys
in a bath towel and walked straight forward.
I didn’t get far when my older brother caught me
and cautioned, “You’d better come home – or else.”

Nineteen, I ran away to marry
the wrong man for the right reason. Love
always lives in the moment, never the future
where trouble so often resides.

The third time, I left my husband, our house,
three boats and two cars, taking my striped
cat, books, and some savings bonds. Like
the fool in the Major Arcana of the Tarot,

I had no idea where I was going. Young,
rather stupid about life, I fell
many times on my journey.
Far away and long ago is how it seems.

Still the longing listens…