there is a heavy door
between our garage and family room
that closes on its own
with the sound of a twisting cork

on the outside is a sign that reads
"no black-soled shoes in the kitchen"
on the inside is a sign that reads
"did you put your breakfast dishes in the dishwasher?"

visitors frequently comment on the signs
which have long been invisible
to the intended audience

in the entryway
random stains on the carpet
darken between cleanings
and never disappear

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