Michael Redux

Vick rhymes with sick and other slurs
That don’t require mention here.
What’s mattered most is what occurs
Upon resuming his career—
Not killing dogs that wouldn’t fight
By means that decency benight.

Going in Peace

Within our health conglomerate,
Those fighting change are quick to say,
If functionaries’ wants are met,
They’ll single out who’ll go or stay:
In balder terms, who lives or dies
According to what costs arise.

A Crying Shame

John Boehner, Speaker of the House
When Congress next month reconvenes,
Sheds tears as though he wants to dowse
Appearances by any means
He doesn’t wish our children well
And rather’s cynical as hell.

Get that Judge an Actuary

If we need not insure our health,
As now one U.S. judge decrees,
Why must we also squander wealth
On automobile policies,
At least before we’re sick or hurt?
The answer is: we’d lose our shirt.

Watch Yourself!

Julian Assange, Wickileaker,
Bent on spilling U.S. secrets.
Truth he claims to be a seeker
Though it means more U.S. caskets
Shipped from far-flung mountain battle,
Full disclosure’s price to tattle.

Gathering

Thanksgiving starts my every day;
I’m grateful for the glow of dawn.
From nothingness I’ve one more stay
Before my time on Earth is gone
To dwell upon our mystery
That won’t explain our history.