THE HOOK

Why did this fish
bite this hook?
Okay, the hook was hidden
in a worm – and it
was feeding time.
But the consequences?
Death, the whole group
missing a member.
For me – a caught fish,
a digital photo, bragging rights,
and fresh fish for supper.
Yet, now, the thought
while wiping my plate
with rye bread: a family
without a father; a friend
without a friend.
To fish or not to fish?
It’s lesson time.
There are so many hooks
out there. And I’m so hungry.
I do it every time.
I bite – killing myself,
not considering
the consequences:
an end to conversations,
and time together,
being missed – the future,
but at the time,
“Oh that worm looked so juicy.”

© Andy Costello,

Reflections, 2008