Fixer Upper

Sometimes when it comes to the soul.

you find yourself with a fixer upper.

The floors are sloped from shoddy foundations

The drywall is cracked.

It looks like a building that was once

the residence for emotionally disturbed

took a hammer to the toilet and

pounded their fists and heads into the walls.

Windows are painted shut and there is a foul

smell when you turn the taps in the bathroom on.

There are shadows and history.

You are convinced it has good bones.

You are convinced of its ancient inherent beauty.

The view of the ocean. The perennials someone

planted years ago are now a fragrant wilderness of

reckless colour.

Tall stately trees tower above casting shade for the

children you will  bring into the world.

The ceilings are so high you can almost see God.

and at night you could swear you hear the sound

of cultured people laughing before it was

converted into a home for the insane.

You have been here before.

You have the tools.

You have a vision for the joint.

This will be a home where love lives.

It will have walk-in closets and central air

and an ice cube machine.

and you will sleep peacefully here with the

someone you cherish..

This building is a worthy place to invest your heart.

Derek Earl Houghton