i never should have banked it all on red

before i officially retire,

after

an unfortunate trip to Las Vegas,

when i put

my entire 401k on red,

i pour

out the change from

the change

bowl.

i lift the mattress for

the cash

i've hidden

under the far corner.

i go to the safe

and take out the rainy

day money.

i separate the cushions

of the couch

and chair,

then go down to the washing

machine and dryer

to find what

other coins might be there.

i empty

the pockets of all my pants

and shirts,

coats.

i stack them up

on the counter,

and look at my life's savings,

i think i can do this,

if i don't eat

anymore and go live

in the woods

with the fox and bear.