Teasing a toddler with an empty spoon

If every time

you went to feed your toddler

the spoon was empty

and you ignored their hunger

and laughed in the next room

with sadistic family members,

CPS might suspend your parental rights

and some politician up for re-election

might make a speech on the floor of Congress.

Seven months on

our airline has not “found” my luggage

from our trip to Haifa.

I sent them photos from a friend

of my suitcase tag and suitcase and the room number

at the Tel Aviv Airport where it sits.

It’s obvious they don’t care; they’re making billions

and can afford to hand out millions in campaign contributions,

while some grifting friend or relative

has a lucrative business

auctioning off “lost” items.

I have no recourse,

but to accept the pittance settlement check,

because they have lawyers on retainage

and most of us can’t afford to litigate a stolen suitcase.

1-26-23