Part 1: Getting in
I stand naked staring at the hot water
gingerly placing one foot into the tub
Bending over I brace myself on porcelain
Lifting a second foot over and into the tub
I grab both faucets and try to squat
Down, down, down, drop and splash
Sliding forward the warm liquid swirls
Around my aching muscles and white folds
As the water cools to tepid
And skin turns pruney and spongey
I contemplate my exit
From this womb of water
Part 2:? Getting out
I imagine being found drowned
As I attempt a rolling maneuver
After a few false starts
I make it onto knobby knees
Placing hands flat I begin to
Gradually elevate my rear end skyward
I stand naked staring at the cold water
Gingerly place one foot on the floor
Bending over I brace myself on porcelain
Lift second foot over and out
Taking the towel off the hook
I think about getting dressed
