Hallows Eve

Tonight, a witch and skeleton stopped by
Together with a mummy wrapped in cloth,
All three of them stood less than four feet high,
Each held a kettle, but no witch’s broth.

In unison, they blurted, “Trick or treat,”
I knew tonight was set aside for this,
To not tempt fate, I gave each one a sweet
Without regret for any trick I’d miss.

All Hallows Eve, the reapers rang my bell,
Religiously, I acted out my part,
Although they left with treats, they couldn’t tell
The unintended trick I took to heart.

Long after costumed ghosts had gone to bed,
The other-worldly ghosts remained behind
To whisper ghastly warnings in my head,
“We wait to see when you shall be consigned.”

I’ve heard the knock upon my inner door,
And peeked to see who stood upon my stoop,
Rehearsed the scene a thousand times before,
And welcomed in the light and winged troupe.

Each day, until I hear the final knock,
I pray the angels whisper in my ear
The bliss of those who joined sweet heaven’s flock,
And I shall listen while I labor here.

Rich Tassinari 11/2/15