I know almost nothing about car engines, except that I like it when they work and am disgruntled when they need repairs. Still I have a vague awareness of pistons that go up and down, and that it is that very rhythm that propels the car forward. As if they are always trying to catch up with each other, and the fact that they never can keeps the motor running. I guess there must be at least a passing moment when they are side by side. Feel free to instruct me as long as the explanation is not more than two sentences. I have a short attention span for mechanics. 

 

Sometimes I feel like John and I are out of sync. He is feeling chatty when I have things to do. I want a hug when he is preoccupied. He wants to apologize when I am still stewing. I think we should tidy up when he wants to relax. 

 

Yet we are inextricably tied to one another, and out of necessity ought to keep this family running. 

 

Maybe one day John and I will no longer work against each other. It is my hope anyway. I think when we reach the season of our best selves there will be no friction, and we can sail along without the need for combustion.