Atlas

If I don’t do it
Nothing will ever get done
My name is Atlas
I bear the weight of the house
I keep everything going

I do not have time
For rest and relaxation
The rooms are a mess
Unwashed dishes in the sink
Dirty clothes lie in mountains

My two year old son
A source of frustrating love
Toys strewn asunder
Begging to watch some TV
I’m failing as a parent

My beloved wife
She helps as much as she can
When she’s home from work
Dragging herself back each day
One more essential worker

I’m at my wit’s end
Imprisoned in my own house
Going stir crazy
Alone with a bored toddler
Alone with my anxious thoughts

© 2020 by Benjamin Goodrich