Last year,
we met to discuss how we were flourishing,
what made this place so wonderful,
so welcoming,
so special.
This year,
I read your words about us,
and my body weeps at what has become
of our once wonderful
welcoming,
special
place.
Tension in my shoulders.
Stomach churning.
Nails bitten.
Eyes clouded.
Head throbbing.
Make do with less until there is nothing left.
Remake what was precious and original
into tiny boxes that shove our innovation
into boring cookie cutters
and the only flourish is from the arm
cutting us to fit.
Shawn L. Bird 