I thought Melissa’s poem on “Moderation” was so original that I decided to write a poem after the same idea. I hope you don’t mind, Melissa. “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” (Charles Caleb Colton) I liked her poem very much and hope I can attain her standard with “Excellence.”

 

 

Prime rib, a cheese fondue, some brand-new shoes,
those chocolate-coated strawberries, and jazz:
I hold these things in high regard. Topaz,
and amethyst, brave soldiers, front-page news

without disaster, criminals, or war,
the lilacs and the hyacinths of spring–
these treasures scatter diamonds as they bring
such satisfaction. I do not need more.