Cleaning the Bathroom

Today's poem on The Writer's Almanac reminded me of the depth and truth of Carrie Newcomer's "Holy As A Day Is Spent"

Cleaning the Bathroom

by Phyllis Hoge

Cleaning the bathroom is humbling and good.
Enamel and glass feel smoother than wood

as the mind, barely thinking, goes passive. Meanwhile
the hand, gliding easily over the tile

or toilet or mirror, finds tangible peace,
in the rhythm of rubbing, a kindly release

and the patience of porcelain fixtures can drain
what's flashy or fancy in favor of plain.

In style unpretentious, demeanor serene,
the bathroom is basic. Its function: to clean.

"Cleaning the Bathroom" by Phyllis Hoge, from Hello, House. © Fithian Press, 2012. Reprinted with permission. (buy now)