The unknown is a mix of fear and anticipation

A box arrives, name as sender, the poster unfamiliar

Did I purchase something I forgot? An impulse that was satisfied with only a click?

Or is it a Christmas present come early, delivered direct?

Therefore I ask is this a present I am allowed to unwrap.

I seek permission, confirmation that the gift is for me to receive.

When it does not answer, I become confused.

A bomb? A prank? I anticipate calamity as I pull back the tape.

Unraveled and safeguarded in bubble-wrap lies a collection of records.

A sweet note inside, explaining the journey of an heirloom

Till its fumbled approach to my front door.

One last reminder of my grandfather,

Opera pieces in bella voche, hearkening to brighter college days.

Nostalgia strikes hard, joy an odd variant of grief.

I long for the moment I can finally lie down

On a quiet afternoon and get lost in music

Once again.