into the high shelf they go

it's an old people thing,

the saving

of rubber bands,

twisters,

pencils and receipts,

loose string. they throw

nothing away.

everything has value

they say.

those plastic bags,

the paper bags

and boxes,

folded neatly between

the fridge

and wall.

chipped cups and plates,

bent silver ware.

you never know, they say.

so true, i think, as i put

the empty jars and bottles,

safely away.