Balancing

I've seen other waiters do this he thinks

picking up a plate to balance on his arm

already carrying two in each hand.

It must be the uniform.

He would never try that at home

but in this dining room he is not himself

he is playing the role of a waiter

which we all do. 'This is not who I am

but it's what I'm supposed to do.

This is what's expected of me.'

All of us trying to cope, all of us terrified

all of us doing our best.