a life in one box

his desk

cluttered, leaves a will,

his wallet

with forty dollars in it,

a photo album

of his seven

children,

and books.

his Navy papers are

in a folder.

thirty years worth of

documents.

evidence of ships

on the seven seas.

there's a letter from

his Mother.

and another one from

his sister,

both contesting the will

when she

died.

there's his check book with

the last entry,

groceries from

the commissary

and a haircut.

all of this fits in one box,

which i carry

to the car.

the house is full of

furniture,

televisions,

dishes, glasses, China,

silver ware.

clothing. lamps and American

Flags on golden poles.

i leave the door wide

open when i leave.

i have what

i want.