Ode to a Minivan

O, 1995 Odyssey, thou art a member of the family
but you have grown old, so it is time to let you go
Nay, we will not be like the eskimos, sending you out on an ice flow
That would not be environmental, as no bear will eat you.

The children are crying and knashing their teeth
Thou, Odyssey are the only car they have known
Many happy hours spent in the back seats, telling stories and
Spilling food and drink, giving you that unique odor.

We thought of donating you, but were aghast
We could not claim your full Blue Book value
Cruel charity would only sell you for scrap
Unfair for an old girl with some spirit and drivability yet.

I cast about among my artist friends, asking,
"Does anyone want a van--to drive it, love it and use it?"
No one answered. I was aghast again.
Later, I found Artists are never swift of email, even if the car is donated for a write off.

We cast our eyes upon our bank account. Whoa.
Surely, it is worth putting a few for sales signs upon your windows
Price it well, if no one responds, so be it.
The old girl must be useful to someone.

Immediately, Odyssey was besieged! People were calling!
Yea, there was much interest you, O dependable old car
Even if you need new tires and a new battery
Desirous of you, even if your ABS is only intermittent!

Our next door neighbors delighted
Took you on a test drive, and
Declared their intentions of taking you
For their teen is driving, and lo, they had not enough cars.

O, Odyssey, you shall now be our neighbor
Our children are overjoyed
You will be well cared for, and in 5 years,
The kids vowed they will buy you back as their own again.

O, beloved Odyssey, may you not rust apart before then...