to those who cook

to those who cook,

those who love the work of roasting eggplant,

patiently turning each slice

waiting for the perfect brown.

to those who cook who relish the multiple 

steps, the roasting being only the first step,

then sauteeing of onions and garlic,

adding robust flavors of last years basil,

expertly dried,

letting time meld these flavors with

Italian crushed tomatoes.

to those who love to cook, the final

layering of eggplant, parmesan cheese,

tomato sauce and mozzarella,

these cooks wait with happy expectation

that their work will its own reward,

I am not that cook.