Hanky Panky

I was careless with one of my favorite handkerchiefs.
I took it for granted though I loved it well. I misplaced
it. Literally. My hand missed the pocket on the outside
of my satchel. My handkerchief parachuted away from
me. I did not notice its departure until many minutes
later. I had no idea if I had dropped it or left it. In just
one moment of inattention it was gone. My drippy
nose and I said a final good bye. Days later I looked
down at the sidewalk. There it was. Shriveled. Filthy.
Ready to forgive me. I picked it up and balled it into
my gloved hand. I rinsed it in the sink. It sits there
still soaking in what passes for heavy-duty cleaners
in my life. It looks faded. It may never be the same
but I’m going to learn to love it in its new incarnation.

Cinse Bonino
2023