Bubba Knows

by Steve Brazzell

Bubba talks to me sometimes
Tells me in strident tones
What the world is all about.
He does not flinch.
Bubba knows what he believes.
He tells me everything he thinks,
And expects a good
You got it or Damn straight or
Sheeeaaat. Bubba knows.
He knows who calls the shots.
He knows when to keep his
Damn mouth shut, as he puts it.
And he does. Bubba does.
Bubba respects the country
The law the veterans the flag
He's got one sticking straight out
On the corner of his trailer.
Bubba cries only at the funerals
Of those he loved most and he
Wears sunglasses then. If they
Need someone to carry the casket
Bubba will be there. He'll walk
Straight and carry a grim look and
Be sure not to crack any jokes
Or make light. Bubba ain't
About to show no disrespect
To nobody. That's a quote.
Bubba goes home and sits
In a brown, vinyl recliner and
Drinks five beers that Louise
Begrudgingly replenishes.
Bubba goes to church and every
Now and then Bubba walks down
The aisle and rededicates his life
To Christ.
When I buy Bubba a beer he always
Says the next one's on him.
I'm Bubba's friend; I know.
And Bubba knows what he believes.

-- SB
©2001 Steve Brazzell

Steve Brazzell is a systems consultant who grew up in South Carolina and now lives in Atlanta with his wife, Daffney and five daughters, Carol, Laurie, Becca, Abby and Holly. When not working or writing he spends his time changing the diapers of his twin babies, Abby and Holly, now almost six months old. He dreams of being able to afford to send all five of his girls to his alma mater, Duke University (all contributions welcome).