engine company 42

as kids

we used to hang out at the firehouse.

we'd watch

the trucks

go out,

the men slide down

the pole

in their heavy hats and coats,

gloves

and boots.

the siren would scream

and they

would drop

their chicken legs

and sandwiches

and hop to it.

coming back an hour later

with ashes

on their face.

then they'd go back to eating,

as if nothing

happened.

having donuts and coffee

for dessert.