The Last Step Before %@$# Off

Everyone deserves

a use-at-your-own-discretion detour sign

hazard orange triangle reflective LEDs standard issue without request

like government salary deductions no opt out permitted

but sure as barcoded brands of “Buy-me-buy-me-buy-me-now!”

stuffed down engorged psyches without an ounce of compassion.

*

Isolation is a tactic—maybe it’s just me.

Then it becomes just you

*

who notification pings selfish

for not being available

accessing the database uploading the software downloading the app

because you didn’t text back forward the link

missed the Zoom meeting Microsoft Teams.

*

How could you miss Microsoft Teams?

*

What could you possibly have been doing

to prevent such convenient presence

participation

aaand look like you’re liking it loads?

*

Brain wave frequencies not registered

but hells yeah bring your anxiety-laden heart rate and engage.

Feedback is requested

i.e. required.

Bits and bytes data to overload your cellular matrix

within view of beside beings programmed to cope

or face auto-destruct sequence.

Convinced that only losers can’t comply,

are designated dysfunctional problems with repeat error #01011 code.

Fit in or face deletion.

*

Isolation is a tactic—maybe it’s just me.

Then it becomes just you

*

who can’t explain what the issue is

with marketing algorithms attached

and dripping from every neuron you possess

and not one iota of self that can identify define and validate

a separate consciousness capable of independent thought,

malleable fodder for esemplastic policy-makers and ad campaigns.

If an offsite independent assessment team had review options

entire societies would shut

cited as inadequate

designated in need of special measures

unfit as shit

exercising illegal stranglehold with intent to eradicate

just some—not all— of its subjects for individuality inconvenience.

Metaphorical head trauma

with literal brain tissue splattered on pavement

and PR timed parameters for anybody who needs to vomit about it.

*

Maybe it’s just you.

*

But a detour sign

to direct traffic elsewhere

to escape pressure

to preserve headspace heartspace alone place

for enjoyment of one’s own being in undiluted silence

snuggle blanket-curled calm

rejuvenative and real.

That

sure beats the alternative.

(This poem has been previously published by the author on Simily)

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