Ode to Cakes

Pretend it’s your birthday. Zest a lemon off the tree and watch the sundown light dance. Throw a party. Welcome everyone as they are. Say thank you, thank you. Sip sherry and feel the city rattle in your bones. Knead your heart until it’s sore. Melt like ice cream. Fill the table with rhubarb pie and blueberry pancakes for dessert. Come alive at mealtime. Hold court and then give it up. Miss the people who can’t make it. Say I made this cake for you. I made it up. I bought an ice cream maker because they didn’t have your favorite flavor. To say, I love you. It takes time to thaw. Here’s your chai. I wrote down the recipe. Love has many layers. To say, remember this. But it’s okay if you forget. Something sweet can make the world feel whole.

Stay longer. Another slice.