I write moments of my life
on torn scraps of paper
like pull tabs plucked
for guitar lessons
from a flyer on the glass
bus stop wall.

A few words
or a phrase
like “college”
three or four hobbies I once delighted in
“first marriage”
names of friends
no one current
only those lost along the way
get a slip.

A few dreams
jobs thought
to have potential
“closer relationship with son”
moments not taken
others given too impulsively
a shot
at something better
ink to paper.

As I write each one
I relive a moment
pain and happiness
mistakes made
the good with the bad
time spent
is never refundable
and I kiss each one
to a candle’s flame
incinerating them.

All over again.