Down the Rails

I read instructions,

Put the pegs into their proper holes.

I followed the dictated bold red lines

Across the mapped terrain,

And never strayed

Because of trivial distractions.

I was tops at making my bed

And cleaning my plate.

I said my ma'ams and sirs.

I mastered every trick,

Performed for every town.

Nobody mentioned every rule would change,

The manuals dissolve.

I'm not an amateur or automaton.

The discipline solidified

My muscles and resolve.

It hardened me for action.

So dally, flirt,

Entice and disappear for days on end.

I'm never the sideshow.

The big tent is pulling up the stakes

And moving down the road.

- 12/12/25