Shine

For Cameron

her dress, a fiesta,

his face, an open pinata, spilling light.

we are here to schmooze, heat lamps on a patio. in oak park

it is overnight autumn and joy is incoming.

her full-body welcome, explosive laugh

happening in the space of my disconnect from this latest entry in the dictionary of human suffering.

she has made her way through marauders and misfortune to secure this sweet-man prize, and my happiness happily wears blinders. my heart locks the door, throws open a small window onto this patio, take its fill.

she met him on tinder and the world is on fire. i will let the flames lick me tomorrow but tonight i eat a second taco, and for my heroic friend,

thank every lucky star.