Is a sunny day better than a rainy one?
Or a warm one better than cold?
Is a first date better than no date at all?
Or a new friend better than old?
Are roses better than daffodils?
Or parsley better than thyme?
Are apples better than tangerines?
Or lemons better than limes?
Who is it that decides the scale
that ranks one above another?
And does that scale apply to all,
Placing sister over brother?
And what’s the difference between better and best?
Is it large or very small?
And if something proves to be neither of those,
is it worth our time at all?
In my youth I strived for best,
as “only better” wouldn’t do.
But as I’ve aged, I’ve realized
it’s more about the view.
For what was better 10 years ago,
today may be the best.
Suppose the opposite’s also true
depending on the test.
So when I close my eyes tonight
and find my way to sleep,
I will rest most peacefully
knowing there’s no score to keep.
Tori Burris Inkley
4/10/24
Tori Dreamer 