Futures

For what's considered reality, so much value
is accorded the unknown. Bankers and investors 

call it futures. This has a history apparently going 
back to a law passed by King Hammurabi: you were

absolved of your debts if all your assets were wiped out
by some unforeseen calamity—water or fire, plague, 

war; your own resulting demise. It's why those who can,
shell out fixed amounts each month for life, accident, 

flood insurance. So many nets to build, to catch you
should you fall or fail.  Pushing off from a country 

you'll leave behind for another where you have no idea
of welcome or how long you can stay, what is the best

equipment for long travel? A bird that returns to the lonely
branch of your wrist, a camel which swims through sand?