When we returned after seven years
the economy was in hibernation
vacancies a prom queen
multiple suitors
best behaviour queues.
It’s not what I would have chosen
but after 14 months choice wasn’t
if acceptance was a wine
tasting notes would have read
a surge of gratitude …. relief the long taste.
She asked why I was leaving
candour said too many staff had been here too long
assertive had evolved to aggressive
their manner best described as courteous hostility.
Did she know what I meant?
“No.”
Resignation must be written
reasons to be stated
a requirement for HR protocols.
A pause.
Concern makes its first appearance
musing out loud – as if just thought of
personnel records remain on file
available to auditors from head office.
Just write something brief
about departure to pursue new opportunities.
Eyes meet.
Dishonesty as request – not instruction.
Protest forms and then remembers
14 months of breath held wish
and envelope crushed hope.
Gratitude had made repayment in full. Relief still owed her.
Orphaned Islands (Un)poetry 