I realized that my out of office was on
for far too long a time.

I could not deal with the growing dread
of seeing what we had become.

A ring, some things like all the others had
an outward symbol would show my love.

My taste was bad, my gifts not your style
order fulfillment was my role.

my trips were pleasantly ordered marches
that you would observe but only semi-enjoy

and so I put a simple response to you
that over years was never noted.

instead we smugly assumed that each of us
was occupying the higher ground.

I was to chase and flatter and spoil
the one who preferred my out of office.

where I had hoped for some sign
that she missed and wanted the real me.

And now our accounts are closed
and I am going to be careful...

about my out of office