A friend declared she’s furious about
a minor retail act she disapproves.
It minded me how often she will spout
with indignation, like its flavor moves.
The way my mother gathers energy
from negative emotions, I well know.
I turn the scope to next examine me –
am I propelled by anger’s heady flow?

The answer’s no, for though I often see
a former friend who wronged me several times,
who occupies a role near family,
and never has acknowledged her old crimes,
I do not seek revenge. I am not mad.
But I’ll admit the lift when she feels sad.