My Perfect Neighbor

Alice C. Linsley

Her tightly laced world chokes me.
Her flawless nest ensnares my spirit.
Her dusted god, neatly on display
glares at me from the china cabinet.
Order is her mask,
her grand show.
No ambiguities distress
her tea time pleasantries.
She smiles at my reply
holding back a spearmint yawn
with her tissued hand.
I am here sipping tea from the fragile lip
of this smooth porcelain cup.
I want to flee, but pray for grace
to love my perfect neighbor.