Both Ends

With apologies to Dorothy Parker

Both Ends

She is weary and knows the cost
Of rising in the dark
To begin her duties of the day

She doesn't hesitate beyond
The occasional sigh
To do what must be done.

The briefest kiss on leaving,
On parting in the dark
And a glance at sleeping innocence.

His brief embrace at day's end
The child's happy giggle
Are all the pay that matters.

She'll pay the price tomorrow
In never forgotten joy
She knows the cost and pays it.

Without question, without hesitation,
For the light of love
That lights her on her way.