Esteemed Brain Tonic and Intellectual Beverage

In case of headache or mental exhaustion,
one cannot rely on the fizzy, caffeinated

sweetness of Coca-Cola. But rather, than dwell
on its lack of restorative properties,

take a sip. Ideas may turn up—
glaze for a spiral sliced ham,

windshield defroster, rust remover,
toilet bowl cleaner. A laundry additive.

In a pinch, the antidote for a jellyfish sting.
Drink Coca-Cola and the world

will open itself to you. And isn’t that exactly
the thing for which you have been thirsting.

Lara Dolphin is a recovering attorney, novice nurse, and full-time mother of four amazing kids; she is exhausted and elated most of the time.