& the pharmacy across the way
took just long enough
getting me my fat old man drugs
it was time to unlock the front door
after afternoon prayers

seduced by the promise of basmati rice
enraptured by produce
payday, no time for restraint
time for mango nectar, cupcakes
& vegan meatballs

children in dashikis
wearing Hello Kitty backpacks
race through the isles
pushing mini shopping carts
full of breakfast cereal
zipping in-between shoppers
wearing hijabs & Steelers jerseys
like it’s a Mario Kart Grand Prix
giggling like it’s a celebration

because it is