Priority

Every so often, you have the revelation that you are not the priority.

Priority

by Pamala Sheppard 1996

Thank you for making me a priority

Sometimes I come first.

Right after the kids,

And your music career,

Your best friend,

And your work,

Of course dear.

Sometimes I come fourth.

Right after your relatives,

And fixing your car,

Cleaning your room, Playing guitar.

Sometimes I come eighth.

Right after checking

Your body for ticks,

Taking your temp

to see if you’re sick.

Sometimes I come tenth

After paying your bills,

Trimming your nails,

Fluffing the couch,

Answering mail.

And since you never call...

I guess I don’t come at all.