Talisman

My ancestors thought it was all about luck,
landing on Ellis Island
and then finding their way to the promise of riches in California.
Those sweet green eyed people
who knew sorrow
but kept trying anyway.
Did they hope it would be easier for me someday?

My sister sent me a four leaf clover
through the mail.
It was laminated.
So I hung it in our doorway
where it now catches the afternoon breeze.