Rules of Engagement

 

Neil Harding McAlister

 

 

Our conference is winding down.

Tomorrow we’ll fly out of town.

Before we leave for places far

We kill time in this hotel bar.

 

A cad will fuel his manly pride

With sneaky romance on the side.

To prove I'm not that kind of louse

I’ve talked about my kids and spouse.

 

But even though that line’s been drawn,

It’s fun to feel that old  frisson

While chatting up the other sex,

Imagining what could come next.

 

We’ve been around; we know the rules.

Thank goodness we’re no longer fools

Of hormones that have ceased to rage

When people reach “a certain age.”

 

Or maybe we just choose to see

A virtue in necessity:

We stifle yawns. I should not stay.

Tomorrow is a busy day.

 

So thanks for spending time with me.

You’ve been delightful company.

This is my E-mail; here’s my phone.

(I doubt you’ll call when you get home.)

 

I hope it won't offend you much,

Or make you think you’ve lost your touch,

If I should pack it in so soon,

And fail to walk you to your room.

  

Far better we avoid tonight

An awkward choice of wrong or right.

Some fantasies are best unsaid

As pleasant dreams, alone in bed.

 

True, nothing ventured, nothing gained;

But if Life’s cup we have not drained,

We’ll shake hands now with conscience clear --

And share another drink next year!

 

 

 

© 2004, NHM