why, when we shimmer

(1)

why, when we shimmer
do the thoughts of what could be,
still fill the fear rooms in her partitioned brain--
undaunted, deflecting rain

easing off the pain of the present
standing for one single variable
which works for some

who know how
(she never learned)
how to cook for one--

(2)

she wants to live
in a slower, more respectful time
when waiting on lines

would be a golden opportunity
to learn from the woman in front of her
where she bought that cameo pin

what her musky fragrance is
that is overbearing. but clearly
she likes it--and how everyone

wants to be heard, touched
and recognized as being
a bright light
in a darkened room

words and photo by kate lamberg

july 9, '14 (c)