Part of a set brought out for special occasions
showing guests wholeness and belonging—
matching, complementary, complete
“All for one, and one for all!”
The family motto reiterated in ritualistic chant
Part of a set displayed on holidays
buffed with care into sparkle and gleam
hiding flaws and secrets
under layers of protective polish
Impressing outsiders and onlookers
Part of a set exhibited for ceremony
identical in rigid expectations
proof of continuity and unity
loaded with traditional roles
Indistinguishable utensils of the matriarch
Copyright 2011 Elizabeth Abrams Chapman
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