Stuff

I’ve got so much stuff
old memories and dust,
things I once needed,
and things I bought just… because.

I look at it now and scratch my head
Why did I keep this?
What was I thinking ahead?

The kids don’t want it
not the knick-knacks, not the chair,
not the lamp from ‘84,
not my souvenir underwear.

So someday when I’m gone
and they sort through it all,
they’ll donate half to charity
and maybe keep… a photo on the wall.

And if you’re wandering aisles
at Goodwill or Salvation Army
and see something odd that makes you laugh
well… that just might be part of me.

So take it with a smile,
or leave it where it stands
just know I lived a good life
(and bought way too much in clearance bins).

And when I’m finally home
where no earthly clutter follows,
I’ll leave behind the shelves and drawers
and trade them for peace—and golden hollows.

But if you ever find my treasures
priced ninety-nine cents or two
smile, friend…
because somewhere I’m laughing, too.

Mark C. Waldrop 🪶