The Happy Hotel Poem by Susan Lacovara

Having a well recognized hanging sign
And a well known 'Open Door' policy
To my heart and the warmth of my hearth
Sadly comes with a price
Of strangers and others who strangely return
To come and rest by the comfort
Of my continuous flame of friendly acceptance

That they may shed their skin
Molt from their mundane sadness
Stay as I serve tea and timeless encouragement
Mend the holes in their socks
And their souls
So that they regain the positive charge
To their battered batteries
Enough that they can slip away
Into sunlight
Strong and well slept
Closing the door behind
Vanishing to a bustop schedule
A ferry reservation
An airport accommodation
Of their standby barely booked
Last minute getaway

I empty ashtrays
Snuff out candles
Spread fresh laundered linens
Wash a sink full of saucers and teacups
And sniff back the sadness
Of rehanging the VACANCY sign

All, at the Happy Hotel