.....and worse verse

Making Tea

Boil the water she says,
Till its warmer than common lust,
But cooler than a hot temper.

Pour the water, let it sit
Longer than an impatient child's pleading,
But not as long as brooding jealousy.

Pour it out into cups.
Add sugar sweeter than kindness,
But not as sweet as indulgence.

Stir after you add milk,
Enough for the colour of compassion,
But not for the shade of weakness.

Serve it, with gentility,
That falls short of servitude.
And sip it, with gratitude.