Killing The Messenger Poem by Patti Masterman

Why is it the people you detest the most
Always have to be the first to telephone with bad news;
A favorite acquaintance has died, or a spiritual mentor,
Or the only in-law you actively liked and still respected-
They just can't wait to be the first to call,
Be the bearer of the worst news.

At such times, I have to stifle an urge to scream
Into the handset, send a hundred decibels
Roaring into their captive ear-drums;
'I wish to god, that it had been YOU instead.'
Sometimes you just want to kill the messenger.

Why do the idiots always go on breathing soundly,
While the saintly people pass away too soon?