“Would you like some?” said Life the waiter. 

Yes. I thought. That’s why I’m here!  

But instead I said, “No thank you.”

“Are you sure?” said Life. “It’s a little tough. But full of flavor.” 

“Yes, I’m sure.” I said. “I’m too full.”

“Too full?” said Life.   

“Yes. I am full of excuses.” 

Life the waiter waited, still within my reach. 

“It looks delicious,” I said and meant it. My mouth starting to water. 

“If you try, you will feel better,” said Life.

“Excuses are so exhausting.” I said. 

“Is that so?” Life mumbled, mouth full of what it had to offer.   

“Ye-,” I said. Life wasn’t listening.  

“Please save some for me!” I said. 

“Would you like some?” Life the waiter asked again.

I pulled an empty bag from my purse and filled it to the top. 

“First, I have to try,” I said. Life winked and walked away. 

I started trying. As I tried, I dropped the weight of my excuses. 

Two-hundred words lighter, I opened the bag and took a bite out of life. It was still fresh.