Gathering

On a Saturday, tired from the day before
I forced myself to rise for the day's promises
duties chosen because I wanted to
made connections in rooms big enough
to expend my energies for something new
to feel known for a little while
discovered creations that others share
listened to their plights, joys, experiences
seeking influences for I will need it
soaked it up until it uplifted, then drained me
because some day I may be like them
sitting behind a table full of my craft
marketing my words printed on paper.

(2007)