The gambler puts in fifty-cents
expects hundreds in return;
a simple flick of the wrist,
and abundance will be his.
I feel like a slot machine,
paying dues for minimal input.
Tells himself there is more
to be had, if luck runs his way;
walks away from the richness
of family, joy of friendships –
I’d be a slot machine for him,
if only love equated money.
dreams of possibilities beyond
his daily reach, a fast track plan;
fortune is calling, palm itching
just one more roll of the die –
The die has been cast here;
no longer willing to gamble.
one more momentous win,
a promise to share the wealth;
what more could any woman want
from a man – half an empty dream?
Took a chance, myself once,
thought he was my windfall –
guess, in the end, all gamblers lose.