time to go

the corner store
is closing and the new drug
store
will be in soon.
down goes
the hand made sign, the door
with the bell,
the crates
of fruit and vegetables
out front.
flowers, where did they
come from?
away goes
the man hosing down
the walk
in the early morning
sunlight.
they are old now.
why not take the money
and go.
why not let the water
of time
and progress
wash over them,
take them home to
that imaginary promised
land.