Purpose in Re-purpose

I like to go to thrift stores

and look at discarded decorations.

I like to see what their new price tags say.

Who decided

that the 2000 limited edition ornament

was worthy of 99 cents

or the out of tune Santa music box

warranted a sum of 3 dollars?

I like to go to thrift stores

and look at discarded decorations.

I like to imagine where they used to live.

Who decided

that the plastic, faded holly wreath

no longer graced the front door

or the chipped snowman cookie jar

served its last set of sweet delights?

I like to go to thrift stores

and look at discarded decorations.

I like to select one item each year.

I decided

that the naughty or nice coffee mug

would serve a steaming, fresh cup

and the brass reindeer statue

would majestically sit on the mantle.

I decided.