finding the right stick

you find yourself in
an antique shop
in a sketchy part of town.
an ancient
old man is behind
the counter
working
on the guts of
a clock.
there are silent
stuffed owls
on the walls
and the place smells
like moth
balls and wet shoes.
you see a basket of
long veneered sticks.
you pick one up
and wave it around.
what are these for you
ask the man as he
tinkers in the darkness.
divining rods, he
says. be careful with
that one. that one
is for love.
carry it around
and you'll find the
love of your life.
what are the other
sticks for, you ask
him, holding on tightly
to the one you
picked. water, he
says, gold. happiness.
peace of mind.
but won't love
bring you happiness,
peace of mind?
how old are you he asks,
you haven't learned
anything, have you.