The Grip

A couple grip hands with lies,

upset stomachs and stilted gait.

It works for them in the hospital

where they attend to the near dead.

It is even the perfect way

to approach the dairy aisle

at the local supermarket.

On the sidewalk, you can’t tell

them from the truth,

clear guts and a natural stroll.

You might even figure their hands

to be the real thing, with supple wrists

and actual wrap-around fingers.

But at home, deception comes clean.

Their hands loosen.

They throw up and wobble all over the place.

Then, worn out and weary,

they hug each for comfort.

But not for honesty.

Not when there’s nobody watching.