i am happy

Even as my mom & dad criticize our server for having "a little too much energy"

even as my mom dumps more salad on my plate

I am happy

Why not?

Because there are

fresh breadsticks

juicy salad leaves

and a sparkling berry lemonade

To comfort me

Even with the fact that I worked all this summer

and squeezed in what fun times with friends I could

Even though I'm being rapidly propelled into adulthood

Even with all the pain & misery & turmoil that lies ahead

I am happy

Because Target runs with friends

Driving at night, the radio up

and knowing I'll be leaving this oppressive climate for fresh air

make me

happy