don't be late

don't be late
I tell her. I won't wait.

i'm here now,
early as usual. having a drink
at the bar.

let me know
if you can't make it, or
if it rains

or if there is no
parking,

or the dog needs to be
walk, or the kid
is sick.

don't be late.
i'm tired of waiting.

exhausted by the needs of others.
i'm selfish now.

I've earned the right
at last,

it's all about me, done
with indulging
others,
forgiving, being lenient

with
their issues, their chaotic
present,
their gloomy past.

i'm tired of
being last.

don't be late, I won't
wait.