Peter Jastermsky

Heirloom

To get a job as a carpenter, the old-timers had to build one. This served as their resume. Under the shambling woodpile in the cellar, we find it. Walnut wood, a dozen felt-lined pullout drawers, the copper knobs for ease of use. The three of us stand back in admiration.

Slowly, the reasons come, for why none of us can keep it. Too heavy for one person to carry, and too massive to ship back home. We keep looking down at the heirloom, not each other. In the family for over 80 years. But now, soon, to the highest bidder.

grandpa’s tool chest
no fixes
for today’s Windows