We lay on the counter— 
eight slices of whole grain bread—
comforted in a blanket of smooth butter. A blue flame
flickers beneath the black griddle, spreading
heat through the cool iron.

Concealed by slices of cheese,
warmth embraces us as our insides
heat. The butter sizzles and
seeps into our openings. Cheese
slowly softens between us.

We spin into the air,
tossing and turning, landing with
our golden brown proudly displayed.
Cooked perfectly, gooey cheese flows
out our sides. We flip once more onto the plate.

Together—the cheese, the butter, and I
represent a family.
Together—we are loyalty, comfort, and love.
Together—our family provides
for another.