The Tip Toe Traveller

Because I have to drive you back
And from the airport, in cool or cold nights,
Rain or shine, and the little girl, our girl, is already

Fallen asleep behind her imaginary wheel,
her head lingering on her neck while I worry,
I want you to take a cab next time. Please?

Because at every stop sign I have to make sure the
Doors are locked, windows are rolled up,
And my teakwood Taekwondo black belt ready to jump
In case we are attacked by a stranger,
In the middle of nowhere, I want you to take
A cab next time you are in town. Please?

But because you are believable when you are standing
All cheerful and light, calling me yours with laughter and tears,
Your reason to live, I am ready to drive in cool or cold,
Night and rain, to pick you up before your fingers tip toe to dial
The number out of a yellow page for a yellow box on the wheels.

Sheema Kalbasi