V. Saying Farewell

The curve of a barren hand,
extending five fingers
like the porcelain smoothness
of prison bars,
is a gift I will not accept
as the calendar flutters her pages
to a new chapter.

I have straggled long
and lost my way
on the bad advice
given me,
betrayed and stumbling
by trusting
in the goodness
of all souls.

Let me return the favor
by offering you
these simple words--

Do not reach out
with false hope
on your smiling lips.

Do not greet me as a friend.
I already am a stranger
you have never met.

Put your hand into your own pocket
for the change you will need
to call on someone
whom you have
not yet used up.

The click of the receiver
will be all the clue you need
to get this final message.