Despite

the ennui finds the smallest cracks
and seeps into my soul
the warmth Inside lets it ferment
into something more dole-
ful and malignant with self-
loathing at it's core

despite the lateness of the day
my chronic aches and pains
and wasted opportunities
to use my brawn and brains
my brawn ... now there's a fantasy
on which I'll not digress ...
to better our humanity
not feather my own nest

with self- deluding promises
from bosses with white teeth
who represent the status quo
and siphon off the talent
of those willing to believe
into the maw of the machine
that powers inequality

despite all that
it falls on me
to use whatever's left
with smile or pat
or outstretched hand
to let you know
you're not alone and
friend we are well met.

© 2015 Frederick Andrew ~ All rights reserved