Ode to Kyle

For Mel Francis, with love:

ODE TO KYLE

Beside the door,
out in the hall,
his presence noted--
though quite small,
eliciting spontaneous smile
surprised was I to meet him-- KYLE.

Perched on his head
upon the floor,
the sentry stood
outside my door
and met me daily
during my stay
at this year's conference-- RWA.

Oh golden lad!
Oh suctioning boy!
Oh, gently leaning
shy and coy
upon the wall,
no trace of smile
in utilitarian silence-- Kyle.

He'll be remembered;
he'll be missed.
He's seen the world--
or, where it's pissed.
I leave him to
fly many miles
but never will I forget Kyle.