Today is Sunday.
I don’t have to go to the office.
So I tend the garden—
watering the plants,
pulling out weeds,
pruning shrubs and trees,
feeding the soil,
spraying for pests,
and gathering the fruits.
I clean the fishpond:
drain the water,
lift the fish into a bucket,
scrub the filter,
trim the dead leaves,
refill with fresh water,
and return the fish to their home.
I mend the fences,
mow the lawn,
heap the cut grass in a basket,
collect fallen leaves,
spread leaves and grass for mulch,
so the earth keeps its moisture longer.
By noon I am finished.
I shower, dress in fresh clothes,
and sit down to lunch—
fish curry, fried fish eggs, and salad.
Afterward I brew black coffee, no sugar,
and sip it while reading
the newest Booker Prize winner.
Later I dress again for church,
attend the holy mass,
and return home.
Tea is samosas and banana fritters.
I read on from where I left off,
and delight in the story’s voice.
Dinner is vegetable soup
with steamed bananas,
served at eight sharp.
I thank God for His blessings
and go to sleep,
knowing I must rise early for work.
Sundays are always gentle,
and I look forward to them.
