the music teacher

they wobble
in with thick red
cheeks.
layered in
winter clothes,
holding music
sheets,
and flutes,
dark cases
holding trombones.
parents wave
from
cars, blowing
kisses
as the children
look back
and knock
at the door.
the music teacher
waves
back and takes
them in.
most are hopeless,
never learning
the simplest
of notes.
not caring. they
don't listen
or learn,
they endure,
as does the teacher.
who puts
the cash into a
small bowl
in the kitchen.
surrendering
her life.
it's not about music
anymore.