I know my answer should have been earlier,

I needed to attend all the meetings,

To have listened to others when the discussions were happening,

But I didn’t.

xxx

Now, the report is due,

The conclusions are in,

A consensus is made.

xxx

But I will still place myself at the head of the table,

Even though I did not prepare the food,

Invite the guests,

Or even greet them at the door.