Individuality Observed

Two fellas sat down in a diner
And each wanting something to eat.
They had read a sign in the window
Saying, “Our Breakfast Can’t be Beat!”

One ordered eggs, grits, and country ham
And would finish off with a cinnamon roll.
Good food to nourish the body
And a copy of Scripture to nourish the soul.

Then the waitress turned to the other,
“And I guess you’ll be having the same?”
“I will, except I’ll have some bacon,
Or Virginia ham…it’s a lot more tame.”

“Pardon me, Ma’am….I have a question.”
“Could I get a three-minute poached egg?”
“Well, I’ll have to check back in the kitchen…
Are you sure you’re not pullin’ my leg?”

“O you’ve gotta be a city ham boy”---
“So, no red-eye gravy on your grits.”
“I can handle that order” the waitress said.
“I wouldn’t want breakfast to give you the fits!”

“Now, what jelly to go with your biscuits?….
Will you want muscadine or grape?”
The city fella stammered, “mus-ca-what?”
The waitress replied, “From the great Magnolia state!”

The clientele seemed to be locals
Judging from the guests at a glance.
‘Saw a goodly number of overhauls
As well as many holey work pants!

There were a few I saw on crutches
As well as one or two in wheelchairs.
Not a soul was turned away---
A down home place to eat forgetting your cares.

Chit-chat was low key at the tables.
No verbage was heavy or harsh.
Coffee was drunk from bottomless cups
And frowns not seen or else, very sparse.

Nothing fancy at all in décor…
Mainly Coca Cola collectables displayed.
Of course, there were items of Elvis
And fruit jars with flowers neatly arrayed.

Well, breakfast proved to be a real treat
And a big eye-opener as well.
It was didactic at least for the city man
And a blessing for both as the waitress could tell.

We see that breakfast can be educational
Regarding country and city cuisine.
But one must carefully choose his intake
If he would stay trim and lean.

Charlie Covington
May 12, 2023
Arlington, Tennessee