Grandpa’s Model T

Like all new inventions there exists a certain suspicion
about those who bring the first one home
whether it is an ice box, kerosene lamp, or Model T.

My grandpa was always first in his neighborhood
the Tin Lizzie, affordable for the average family
but not too practical on country roads.

The dust trail alerted everyone in town
so they gathered round to see his new toy.

It was a carriage without a horse, started with a choke
and a crank, ran on gasoline, kerosene, or ethanol.

He showed off the steering wheel and hard rubber tires
turned the lights on and off then honked the horn
it was grand and everyone admired it for hours

but soon, time to eat those who were not family
went home, everyone else assembled round the table inside.

Neighbors were gone for only an hour

but when they returned to admire the car
my grandpa went out to meet them but Sylvia, the goat

had already eaten the stuffing from the front seat
and was pulling the lining off the roof.

Those who were previously jealous couldn’t help but laugh
until they cried. Sylvia was dinner the next night
everyone invited got to ride in grandpa's new Ford.