I chipped a plate today, and as insignificant as it might seem, it somehow saddened me.
I have had it for sixteen years, and it has survived in mint condition through daily use,
three home moves, and a breakup. And yet, one moment of inattention was all it took.
So I guess it may no longer be of use to serve my guests, but I will save it to show you
that having a past does not rule out a future—one day, when we meet.
Facing the future, I tend to drift towards the bygone predicament of the here and now,
as if the past were all that should concern me, yet I obsessively control each and every
passing moment as though a pocket watch I stole from my great-grandfather and carry
everywhere could keep them alive for a little longer. Then I wish there was more time,
often when it is too late for a little sleight of hand—the last trionfi card is already dealt.
hidden pilcrow 