so long lakshmyya.

i understand
the necessity of a T.V.
when money swims low
and your kids can barely eat.

i get
getting away
as a means to survive.

but i wish you'd asked me for something
more easily justified,
or maybe only less conspicuous--

like a meal
or new shoes
or a check.

and i regret
showing up a liar,
empty-handed,
T.V.-less.

so goodbye lakshmyya;
blame me for your losses,
for your unfulfilled requests.
curse me for not packing your 7 grandkids
in my carry-on bag

and remember me begrudgingly
when you're missing the static hum
of a television set.