The Treehouse
The Treehouse
The terrorist walks into the hardware store.
He goes straight to the hardware aisle.
He starts filling plastic bags with nails —
Drywall nails, framing nails,
Nails for roofing and masonry.
He never knew there were so many kinds.
The manager, who makes a point
Of being nice to everyone
Who comes into his store,
Asks him does he need any help.
He’ll be interviewed after,
Will be asked to describe the man,
Will blame himself for selling shrapnel.
The terrorist shakes his head.
The manager, who tries to remember that
Every person he meets might be Christ,
Asks him what he’s building.
A treehouse, the terrorist says.
Your kids will love it, the manager says.
What?
Kids love a treehouse.
Yes, the terrorist says.
Do you need a hammer?
No.