John Grey

 

We pore over maps,

trace routes with fingers,

imagine the scenery

along every mile of our journey.

 

We have pictures

of the motels

we’ll be staying in,

full details

of the attractions

will be seeing.

 

The youngest

is surfing through

the souvenirs

he might buy.

The oldest is already

picking out t-shirts.

 

It’s as if we take the trip

even before we even

step outside the house.

 

God help us all

if the real thing doesn’t go

as planned.

 

We’re unprepared.

No way we can enjoy

what we don’t see coming.