The ancient bartenders were profoundly subtle.
We can only imagine their depth of understanding.

They were careful as someone talking 
   to a jealous husband’s wife.
Alert as a Democrat in Cracker Barrel.
Courteous as a needy man at closing time.
Fluid as ice melting in bourbon.
Shapable as a man with no opinion.
Receptive as a therapist.
Clear as a shot of silver tequila.

Do you have the patience to wait til you’re
out of the weeds and the bar empties?
Can you remain unmoving after hours
until the neglected woman is all cried out?

The master bartender doesn’t expect big tips.
He is present, and can welcome all types.