The handkerchief

Dad pulled it

from his left back pocket

folded to a dry spot

and said, “Blow”

It grossed me out

one small square of cloth

for all my siblings

lined up in a pew

To save my dignity

I carried my own handkerchief

quit sniffling in church

or using my sleeve

Sixty years on, I carry

neatly folded paper towels

in my pocket

ask nicely and I’ll share

4-8-23