70 in a 70

Only sadness as I wrote this. It's not a personal experience, but for many it is too real.

Driving along, thoughts wandering

imagination going wild

with thoughts of

parties and fun,

drinks and his favorite girl.

 

In the zone, signs clearly stood

speed limit obvious

double the fines

people working

sons and daughters,

Dads and Moms.

 

110 through a 70

not a cop in sight

he could almost taste

the beer

and feel the burn

of whiskey.

 

Earning that pay cheque

to fund a college degree,

or to put food on the table,

to pay the mortgage

pay the tax man

Just an hour left in this cold day.

 

Light traffic.

Good, don't have to delay

his arrival.

Anticipation...

 

Squealing tires

screams

thuds

sirens

 

Supper got cold

waiting for

the arrival of

 

Dad, Mom?

Why the tears?

Family grieves

a community cries

 

Driving along

in the back of

the cruiser.

Fear, self loathing.

 

70 in a 70

Everyone goes home safe.

And nobody tries

to arrive early

at the dire cost

of someone

not arriving

at all.