rocking back and forth

there's an art

in getting the car out of the mud

or slush

of ice and snow.

someone has

to push

and rock the boat

from behind

while

someone puts there

foot to the gas

pedal, gently

and kind,

giving it a slow roll,

forward then back.

you need sand, 

or stones

beneath the tires, something

to make it grip.

even this sweater that she

gave me

for Christmas last year,

it's in the trunk,

forever unworn

and a last minute gift.

stuff it under and let

it rip.