Learning Lessons.

Port O'Call, Southern California, St. Vincent's Bridge, Long Beach.

We talked about you yesterday
the time you sped down the Simi Freeway
from a job that went sour
and got a speeding ticket.

You were polite
and thoughtful in the Judge's chambers
opening the door for me
holding the chair before I sat down
contrite with your whole body
choosing your words carefully.
The Judge studied your demeanor
and gave you a pass
allowing you to drive
for work and school and community work stint
at the local golf course.

You didn't mind the hard work
soon scouring old shops for good clubs
getting friends to join you in
learning a new sport
in the place where you were making amends.