I wrote this poem when I was in college, I think.

We still have the family quilt that is in the poem.

My mother made two teapots that are cream colored, with the poem on the teapot.

My sister read this poem at my mother’s funeral.

A friend read this poem at my sister’s funeral, because I was in the hospital.

My sister’s teapot was sent to me and I gave it to my sister’s daughter.

I had to get the poem off my teapot, because I think that’s the only copy that I have…. or had.

---

---

---

In my parents’ house

love is dispensed in teacups

–  –  –  –  –

When they notice you

Pacing in some empty mood

Or with that blank deserted face,

Eyes shutters into an empty mid

They say, “Would you like a cup of tea?”

–  –  –  –  –

The warmth of the cup in your hands

And the hot liquid, sweet and milky

On your tongue works wonders

And binds your soul to your body

–  –  –  –  –

When my sister was twelve

She embroidered a patch for a quilt

In yellow flosses, a cup

With steam curling upwards

And the words, “Such a comfort. TEA.”