Novus Ordo Seclorum
In the supermarket on the way
To where the beer's kept cold
I always pass the shining aisle
Where greeting cards are sold.

Monthly under fluorescent lamps
I can sense the seasons pass,
From New Year's Day to the one
Once known as Christ, His Mass.

I see Valentine's red martyred heart
Aflame with amorous fire,
Followed soon by Patrick's shamrock
Detached from emerald Eire.

Then Spring brings Easter's mixing of
Rabbits and Arising
(While stubborn Jews keep another feast,
Likewise of God's devising).

Then Mother's Day and Father's--
A long lull before the Fall
When witching Halloween arrives
And Thanksgiving stuffs us all.

Each year yields a new selection
Of sentiment and rhyme.
And me? I'll just keep on buying beer
And let Hallmark mark the time.