Getting a Cup of Joe

Getting a Cup of Joe

written by: Joan McNerney

It is 13 degrees above zero.
There is a long line of java
worshippers at Serve Ya’Self.

As more aficionados join us
wide doors open automatically
bringing snow squalls. We
patiently shuffle our black boots.

Finally a weary “Associate” opens
another cash register. Eureka!
My time arrives for a taste of heaven.

A metal plaque informs me
urns and canisters of dark roast
are “out”. No cream either.

Tramping over to where the sugar,
stirrers and napkins hide. They
are not in their usual place! Forlornly
I hold in my disappointment.

Eureka! I spy a napkin holder. Is this
the new spot for sugar? Sweat trickles
down my face as my scarf unloosens.

Exhausted but desperate to find
a lid for my coffee. Crying out
“where are the lids?” … a handsome
young man replies … “here!”

Jubilant ready to leave … when suddenly …
I slip over some ice outside.
Leaping Lizards & Gees Louise …
my “cup of joy” splatters over snow mounds.

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Joan McNerney

Joan McNerney has been the recipient of three scholarships. She has recited her work at the National Arts Club, New York City, State University of New York, Oneonta, McNay Art Institute, San Antonio and the University of Houston, Texas. Published worldwide in over thirty five countries, her work has appeared in literary publications too numerous to mention. Four Best of the Net nominations have been awarded to her. The Muse in Miniature, Love Poems for Michael and At Work are available on Amazon. A new release entitled Light & Shadow explores the recent historic COVID pandemic.

Latest posts by Joan McNerney (see all)

• My Parallel Joan - March 11, 2024
• How Trouble Grows - November 7, 2023
• Getting a Cup of Joe - March 10, 2023