When Death appears

we run for cover, hiding

our faces and dodging

his gazes.

Death makes people

break dishes, drop phones,

lash out

with his unannounced visits.

Death’s steps are heavy and he

can also stare uncontrollably.

But try inviting Death into the kitchen

the kitchens where mothers discuss

funeral preparations and grades

Weddings and graduations

Invite him amongst full figured women

who juggle pots, gossip, and aging parents.

The ringing phone and traffic

through the house may make

Death nervous but make room for

Death at the kitchen table.

Fill his plate up with

collard greens, yams, and fried turkey wings.

Sit down next to Death and discuss

his job over peach cobbler or sweet potato pie.

Try to listen to Death’s words and mission

with an open mind and

when the discussion is over

make sure his belly is full, give him a tooth pick

and send him on his way.