Chance doesn’t care, unfortunately. 

Some are forced to perfect  

their straight faces so the winners may not  

know who has lost. Would I rather never  

roll a six, or know what it feels like to lose  

it all? At times I think I’ve done quite well;  

after all, I am here to write this.  

What is a declined mortgage if not 

life experience? What is a failed marriage  

but the source of inspiration? Is not  

the bailiff’s knock the finest incentive  

to achieve?  

What do you know of me? 

Only a little. Only these moments. But 

I am far more than these experiences. 

I am easy conversation and casual jokes, 

a welcome voice at the monthly karaoke, 

guaranteed first batsman for my local club. 

I am sleepover dad on alternate weekends. 

I am long bubble baths, Superman  

pyjamas and hot chocolate. 

Hand me the dice and watch me smile.  

Trust me, I am happy.