Venerable

Written by

This cabinet, made from an ancient oak tree
Unseated by a rampaging storm
Long before I was born
Has survived eight generations
Polished. Sanded. Refinished
Once painted blue for a wedding
Distressed layers peek out from various places
Corners. Legs. On doors near the hinges

Weathered as an outdoor companion at family reunions 
A space where glasses, teacups and bottles found respite
Seasoned in the kitchen. Quietly listening. Observing
Privy to many exchanges and secrets shared over dishes
You are the keeper of birthday cards and trinkets
Diaries and love letters hidden behind bras and panties

Now filled with vanilla-scented sachets
Pineapple yellow in almost every place
Sensing my ancestors with every touch
My children's children will love you just as much