The I-Need Mouse

Running around quickly, quietly,
with great intensity, very busy,
is the I-need mouse.
A small creature, often hidden,
peeking out from behind most endeavors.
I need money, security, peace and quiet.
I need a relationship, a car, certainty in life.
I need a good dinner, four good friends.
I need better understanding, to weigh less.
To have better timing, more energy.
To be less critical, more forceful, more money savvy.
To be be more accepting
of whatever is on offer today.

At times a roaring lion, but more often,
whispering around the corner,
the I-need mouse befriends your every movement.
Hardly seen, yet never far,
he scampers in and out of your thoughts,
your feelings, and most of all, your sight.
You see a friend with something you need.
You see a garden with something that is perfect for you.
You see the dishes and they have lots to say.
You read a catalog with your dreams in it.
The mouse says, "You ate too much."  "It wasn't healthy."
"It cost more than you wanted to spend."
"Your friends know better."
Squirmy, furry, ever-present, subtly winding,
round and around your toes, your life.
The I-need mouse.

What can possibly tame this Pavlovian creature?
A short laugh and a moment's notice.
Look at that, a mouse!
How could it be otherwise? It can't
How sweet that the mouse has his own plan.
How perfect that the plan has not unfolded.
The Great Plan includes the mouse,
The mouse includes the need.
The need shows up in this life, this moment.
We never left home. How glorious!
And look at that!  I need a mouse!