the system
has misplaced my details,
lost my application
for attention,
for consideration,
for suggestion

for years i have served
given my professional time
quietly, efficiently
with due care
and loyalty
without complaint
but,
i’ve been forgotten
overlooked, as if unworthy

i have been cast out
i am a cast-off
older aged and obliged -
to take a pill

be aware,
old is not stale
as young is not fresh

First published in “New Poets 19” 2018,
edited by Edie Eicas
a production of Friendly Street Poets