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Amtrak

Why can’t I relax? Lie back and enjoy the ride.
Watch the woods fly by. Spaces between blue sky.
All in a solemn sleep. The conductor tells me not to speak
over my cell but to listen and not worry.

Down the aisle he comes again.
He knows when I’m to get off.
All he has to do is check my stub.
“You won’t miss your destination.”

But you never took Amtrak before.
The scenery is so different.
Clouds like mountains and now they’re still.
And the sun’s flashing between the trees!

On you go. The stops are called…
Have confidence they know what they’re doing.
You check your stub. Go back to sleep.
Let the scenery keep grooving.

A cow appears. Almost sits on your lap. 
Licks your cheek and snuggles.
You can’t resist. The farm is yours.    
Kiss the cow and last forever!

I hear my stop from far away.
The conductor is in my face.
Better get off or I’ll miss the Mrs.
Don’t really know where I am!

Now outside. It’s still as can be.
Where are my bags? Did I tip the conductor?
There she is. Stay where you are…
“Honey we bought the farm!”                   

Published in Poetry