Graduation:
The happiest day of my life, so far.
Four years of hard work,
Acknowledged in a two hour
Parade of speeches and names.
Proud tidings, pre-written inspirations.

Three days later,
I’m working the 9 to 5.
Punching the clock,
Answering inquiries.
My face aches
From the forced smiles.
My ear is tired
Of hearing
Clients complain.
I don’t try to make them miserable
I’m too polite to hang up.
Bad form, old chap.

I need that:
Paycheck
Rent check
Light check
Phone check
Check, check, check.

I arrive home,
A “cheap” studio
Ring, ring!
“We have a special offer for…”
Click.
Not interested.

I try to relax.
A small dinner
The news is depressing.

I fall asleep
Late
I wake up
Late

Coffee,
Two cups,
Bitter
Wake up!

Clock in early.
Get some work done early
Before the customers arrive

I do my job
Too well

I am become indispensable
Too good
For my own good
“What would we do without you?”

I am become numb.