sounds like a new semester's beginning again, chaz :) -- succinct, introspective read here, gripping especially when considered with the rest of your collection. Given your depth of expression, I would wager that your grandson won't tire of you anytime soon. Well done.

Of course... I can relate... having been there in the ant hill. There is so much to love in this poem, for example the way you soften your heart in the midst of the bureaucracy by bringing your beloved grandson to mind... "i guard my caring heart. /i focus on my grandson." Brace yourself for embarrassment - but I must say what is in my heart: Again your work reveals to me your beautiful, warm, humanity. Finally - I get "soon he'll not listen" - this comes from your wisdom and from knowing something about the developmental stages. But Keith might be right. This boy-to-become-a-man might surprise you.