SELF DEFENSE

Written to my angry sister....

SELF DEFENSE

Unable to soothe away your anger
I'll tame my coffee instead with cream and sugar.
Until, pale and sweet,
It eases my aching throat
And lessens the chance of choking
On all the words I will not say in my own defense.
I watch you tend your coffee same as mine,
Creamed, but not as sweet, apparently -
For you still rail and rage,
Coffee tasted or not.