Who could believe such love and hate between
Daughters? Patience is always straining,
Working, never enough. Never good enough in
Intelligence or aesthetics. Especially not in kindness.
Idle is always good enough- far too good-
As she gargles polish every morning to show
Off. She marries at 19 to prove she is superior
And ready to raise daughters.
She chides Patience’s Frost and illuminates her
Own crafts and odds. Patience now acts precariously.
“Couldn’t there be some pink added, Idle?” But
Pink is a child’s color. Patience has no friends
And longs for them. Idle has 21 friends and
Hates them all. All but Patience, but really Patience’s sister
Is better. Patience and Idle will end their friendship
Soon by Patience’s choice, when the first rusted leaf falls.
She has been told she is good
Enough to love and be loved.
Good Fruit 