Lean

Lamppost leaning left
tempting me to not turn right
My path flows right along the bay
as the houses lean left
from eons of winds off the water

I think if I ever get another Labrador,
I’ll name her Ilene as previous ones owned
loved to lean against my legs
at least that name wouldn’t be as disrespectful
calling a yella lab Beach when you live in Texas,
just doesn’t work. It comes out all wrong
when you visit the gulf and your dog takes a run.

Lean is just all wrong too.
My dad used to say, “Either sit or stand.” 
If your too tired to do either you should be in bed.” 
He also told me I should stand for some sort of cause.
I should stand up not only for my own rights
but for the rights of others.

Although both mom and dad offered to give
me a reason to not be able to sit down
with belt or wooden spoon in the kitchen.

I learned as I worked in kitchens,
“if you have time to lean you have time to clean.” 
As I see another streetlamp leaning,
this one against a tree for support,
I notice the wind that has picked up, 
“lean into the wind” and continue the path
I am supposed to follow.