A Shift

As I squatted in the dark and snow,
Phil’s headlamp illuminating just enough
To see the baby take each teat in turn,
I remembered the rage such tasks used to bring.

For so long, I had no margin.
To spend a half hour with a needy calf
Meant a half hour less to read to the boys,
Or a half hour less of work or sleep (both vital).

I monetized everything I could. I felt I must.
How much had this calf cost us thus far?
We would never see those hours again.
Is this calf—anything—worth the effort, the expense?

And I sat there today and thought,
I have time now for a few minutes a day for Facebook.
I write poems when I wish. I read to the boys as I please.
Today I spend my free time being hospitable to a calf.

Thanks be to God for the life.