The Preparedness Myth

We kept the bags in the drawer by the sink,

sorted by size and the strength of the link.

You pack your wine glasses in bubble and foam,

but safety was never the flavor of home.

I wait for the siren, the knock at the gate,

while you trust the floorboards to carry the weight.

I’m folding the edges, I’m checking the lock,

a habit that’s older than any wall clock.