I always think I’m
not in the right place
at the right time
doing the right thing
whatever right is.

I always feel that I’m
not wearing the right clothes
no matter how many clothes I buy.
Sheila always seems
perfectly groomed,
informal for informality
tailored for such occasions,
wearing stockings while
I go bare-legged to the theater
feeling gross,
not dressed correctly
not in concert
with my age, status, or place in life.
so the next time
I wear stockings
and she looks perfect
in jeans
and a red shirt.

Lucy gets a job
selling insurance
and I think that’s the right thing
even though I hate selling
and hate insurance.
but for one long week
I read the business section
of the New York Times
thinking I should
apply for those jobs.
but I never do.