how much is bread?

it used

to be enjoyable, going out to restaurants.

before an 8 ounce

steak cost

seventy dollars.

and a potato

was fifteen with or without

a dollop of butter.

it was fun

getting dressed up

and

having

a meal

cooked for you.

reserving a table,

for your date. the food

seasoned

just right. more than you could

eat,

most times.

the professional waiter,

the linen tablecloth,

the candlelight.

the overhead

music,

everyone so

civil,

so polite.

they gave you time

to chew

your food and talk

before

rushing you out the door.

the 1980s and before,

before apps

and Styrofoam

were very good times

to be alive.