elite evaluation

elitist, yes.
the way writing is a hobby
and not hockey scores.
the way Booker prize winners will be my library
and not canoeing guides.
the way tabouleh
is common like hamburgers,
sicilian history
becomes football plays,
drugs otherwise illegal
are cans of beer.

elitist, no.
the way I cherish this world like everyone.
the way I love people, struggling, swimming,
sharing their lives.
the way needs are less wants when in the
presence of strangers.
the way relating becomes external not
the tell-all of my life story.

elitist, yes.
the way a moment’s rest in solitude is
more cherished than campfire banter.
the way relating my simplistic tattoo
becomes one of my key definitions.
the way pronouncing jalapeño by
English speakers offends me.
the way pound dogs are still so elusive.

elitist, no.
the way rapids share their character
to all, including me.
the way wildlife perks its head and
we all share joy.
the way we orient ourselves based on
common knowledge.
the way I want to belong
just like everybody else.