Hide and Seek

In random spots within the little nooks
around my cramped apartment’s office space,
I’ve hidden things in baskets, bins, and books:
a ticket, poorly fitting ankle brace,
or snack beyond its expiration date.
It’s not a tendency for hoarding stuff
that stops my hand and makes me hesitate
to throw away what’s sat there long enough.
Appearing trash, they’re treasures in disguise
that surface when another item’s sought
and bring to mind a kindness or surprise
you might’ve felt too slight for later thought.
So many times, I’ve gotten needed lifts
because I’ve come across your simple gifts.

Paul Burgess

If you have any thoughts about this poem, Paul Burgess  would like to hear them.