Under Arrest When I asked the Fairies Fluttering outside my window About something precious I couldn't find Their reply was swift: Father Time had stolen it, Just as he had been stealing Similar things from others Down through the ages. So are they going to arrest him for theft? Someone did seem to recall That they had a police uniform kicking around somewhere, Complete with badge and gun and billy club And everything. But the last time anyone tried wearing it They had trouble getting the shirt on over their wings. Besides, those Fairy-sized handcuffs Would never fit Father Time's wrists. Couldn't they outsource the task? Maybe, but are you really really sure You really want to arrest Father Time? Yes, the thought of waking up to your clock radio Telling you that Father Time had been arrested So you can roll over and go back to sleep Without worrying about being late To work or school or whatever Does sound rather appealing. But what if it had happened a bit later, With the news coming through your car radio As you crept through the thick of morning traffic: "Abandon all hope of rush hour ever ending"? Or maybe it would have come in the evening As you lingered over dessert in a fine restaurant With a loved one, Savoring the mix of physical and emotional sweetness But beginning to be impatient For the kind of love that would come later In more private intimate surroundings. True, you wouldn't have to worry about Tomorrow's dental appointment But be thankful it didn't catch you Already in the chair. And don't expect a speedy trial: With Father Time under arrest, No cases would ever come to court. So we should be glad the Fairies Have no plans to arrest Father Time Even if they do find that police uniform. -- Tom Digby First Draft 12:32 Mon February 25 2008 Revised 00:50 Tue March 4 2008 Revised 00:35 Thu March 6 2008