Even though Paul believed best is best
U.S. citizens usually disappointed him.
He petitioned the turtle union for membership
more as protest to the latest headlines
than an actual desire to withdraw into a shell.
Paul imagined a patch of Jasmines—
many girls standing together dressed in floral prints.
His UN letter passed under the radar
when he suggested wars be limited to host counties—
those that wanted to start the shooting and bombing.
Paul practiced the simple joys—one of which
was when the incoming tide first washed over his toes.
The tide liked Paul and his daily sand
so deposited a dozen plastic turtles at his feet
their features tumbled away.
copyright © 2023 Kenneth P. Gurney
Umflop 