An Oral Examination Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

How on Earth was it feasibly possible,
That someone riding on a jetski...
Able to get off because of being standed,
AND walk across two runways...
At one of the busiest airports in the world.
And...
Keep this in mind,
Go undetected.

Remember...
This is an oral examination.
Your responses will determine,
Our decision as to who should be selected...
To become the next security advisor..

Number one?
Your answer is...?

'I did my understudy work at Harvard.
And I obtained my Master's Degree in Physics,
Recently at Yale.'

Oookay! ? And...
Number two?
Can you be a bit 'more' specific?

'I've never been on a jetski.
But I've heard they can go really, really fast.'

Number three?
And please do not take this personally.
If you happen to feel offended...
Don't cuss us out and roll your eyes,
Okay?
We only want to hire the best one for the job.

'I understand.'

Good.
Number three...
It is an accepted myth you people can not swim.
With a preference to lay out on the beach,
To drink beer and eat fried chicken.
Now...
We have reviewed your excellent credentials,
So 'hopefully' you have a response that is more direct.

'Well...
I am willing to bet,
IF the jetskier was stranded...
AND walked across two runways,
Wearing a bright yellow vest...
To expose both arms and chest,
This individual had to have been...
A goodlooking Black or Hispanic man,
Who attracted those viewing him...
Through binoculars.
AND...
Those manning the security system,
Were highly impressed!
Unless...
All were awaiting with expectations,
This was the start of a fashion show.'

Geeessshh!
You ARE correct!
However...
We will have to disqualify you,
Based upon our security concerns.

'Which are...
What? '

Don't take this personally,
But I am sure you will understand.
Because of our immediated security concerns,
We preferand seek...
A caucasian.

'You what? '

To ensure 'our' interests stay prioritized and protected.
However...
If you'd like to apply for a manitenance position,
We can set you up for an interview.