Fish dance

Every family has its traditions, particularly around Christmas.  Sometimes the traditions are not quite what would be listed in Emily Post.

It would not be Christmas

Without the annual

Dance around the fish.

My beloved works mightily

To cook

A fresh fish dinner

Every time

We are in Florida.

My beloved*s mother

Does everything in her power

To substitute

Frozen salmon

Gefilte fish.

You name it.

I have witnessed the dance,

The dance around the fish,

For over twenty years.

The argument is part

Of the Florida ritual dance

Around the fish

A dance with learned maneuvers

A dance as choreographed

As any ballet.

It would not be Christmas

Without the annual

Dance around the fish.