In Hard Times, Lean on Your Neighbors
Nov 2, 2022
They have the most to offer
Down among the half-empty aisles with their chipped paint is the meat counter.
“Never fresh,” Dad says, face puckering.
Other staples fill our cart, vegetables, and flour.
At home, Shelby and I help Mama with dinner.
Dad enters wearing his thick apron, gesturing for me to follow.
Mama squeezes my shoulder quick and smiles.
Shelby summons tears. “Not yet, Shelby, you’re still too young,” she soothes.
Inside the barn, the walls are red, but not from paint.
Dad shows me the flock.
I recognize one, an old neighbor.
Dad lets me swing the mallet this time.
They really are fresh.
