We live in a world of practicality

One where humans are reduced

to machines

and demanded to function to full capacity—

to be perfect. 

As students, we must rattle off

perfect grades and test scores

like nobody’s business.

We must be absolutely perfect

to get into the school we want,

and even that sometimes isn’t good enough. 

We’ve got to take up

the model student,

the distinguished athlete,

the selfless philanthropist,

the driven workaholic,

and roll them up into one perfect teenager. 

And in addition to all that,

we’ve got to be happy. 

We’ve got to have friends and enjoy hanging out,

be a loving child and sibling, and

spend time with family. 

Regardless of whether or not that’s all possible,

I just don’t think there’s enough time

in the day

unless we don’t sleep which,

let’s be honest,

is the case. 

I find myself in a world where

I’m constantly trying to please others,

where I’m trying to match

a cookie cutter model that I’ve been taught

to revere, but I just don’t fit.

            I tried a pragmatic lifestyle once

I trained rhythmic gymnastics nonstop

For thirteen years

I had a private lesson on Christmas once.

It was great, but I ended up unhappy.

My father always taught me to stay

Curious and open-minded

As humans I really don’t think

We were meant to be or do one thing

We’re complex for a reason

But we’re taught to look at a sunset and ask

For a solution

It’s all about financial yield and utility

Black and white

Frankly, I think that’s nuts

Life is so much more beautiful

In shades of color