Don’t worry
about your capacity
for heartbreak.
Someone probably
measured us all long ago
predicting this petite l00-odd pounder
can handle this much, so and so, give and take
a bit.
This buyer loaded the racks
with all the necessary merchandise.

There’s a Big Fella’s store for some guys
and for the more average build, you can even find
one size fits all.

The ladies have Plus and Petite boutiques
to satisfy all ranges.

It’s a reluctant struggle in the dressing rooms
of department stores
trying on the latest
it gets hot and tiring
but if you’re lucky you have friends
to run and find the next size up or down
pass it over the door to you
assure you it will all work out.

Material may need to be elastic
for give and take
to stretch and shrink
depending on the run of bad luck.

But it's suspected some
omniscient designer decided
he or she can wear this,
even after all they’ve been through.

Aiming for smooth carriage
on the outside
to disguise the underlying turmoils.

No time for drooping.

Like new shoes, and outfits
it shouldn’t pinch, squish or overwhelm you
you were made for it.

Carry yourself with grace.
A determined disposition
is all that is required.

Your capacity was pre-measured.
You should be able
to wear all this heartbreak well.

04/04/2005