“TRACKS” by Ted Kooser

Using a cobbler’s shoe last

I found one summer at a yard sale,

and the heavy leather uppers

from cast-off boots, a jigsaw,

some wood, an awl and thread,

and a few evenings sitting alone

thinking of you, I have fashioned

a pair of red valentine shoes

with heart-shaped wooden heels.

Look for my tracks on your doorstep

where I stood with sore feet

through the evening, too timid to knock.

– Ted Kooser

Photo by Alexis Rhone Fancher

© 2011