ENGRAVINGS

I noticed two engravings in my house today
A rubbed spot the size of a quarter
On the toilet flush handle

And almost a palm print
On the wall at the top of the stairs
Where I brace myself for the descent

I’m sure there are other unnoticed patterns
Habits of utility ordering my ways
Reflections of my life and predilections

Someday others will notice
They’ll then realize I was here for years
And years later, they’ll discover their engravings

And seeing the detritus of their lives
They will know in a fresh way
The comings and goings of all of us