I Would Rather Be Sociable Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

I have learned,
Not to expect the getting of respect...
From those seeking first to be impressed.
Especially when many perceive success,
As something done one wants to address...
When achievements have been accomplished,
And one wishes nothing less...
Than to mention it with a getting of attention.

'So...
Tell us.
What is it that you do? '

I sacrifice my time to my interests.
Until the doing of it achieves success.
And after I have done that at my best,
I move on to leave them to do something next.

'Oh?
You should think of becoming a poet.'

Who knows.
Maybe one day I will consider it.
But for now I would rather be sociable.
Communicate current issues,
That affect us all.
And connect to them with a meaning.
To feel it as a purpose.
Without being pretentious.

'Oh?
Well,
Good for you.
Perhaps one day before you get much older,
You will find what it is to enjoy and flaunt...
Like the rest of us,
Who have adjusted to established careers.
And to do it with common sense.
To live life not to fantasize.'

You mean like banking, management.
And social services?

'Exactly.
Something real.
And less...
Delusional.'

Hmmm.
I must say you've given me food for thought.
But at 'this' time...
I have no appetite.
Perhaps one day I will.

'Don't wait too late.
Excuse me.
I see some influential friends of mine,
Who have just arrived.
Good luck with your efforts and endeavors.'