Step out from behind your ego,
see what others see

An imperfect vacuum caught in time,
a drum with empty beat

The mirror lies habitual,
to pose as your best friend

A single letter does conspire,
whose “I,” your will portends

That monetary wardrobe,
gold patches on your sleeves

To hide the truth you’ve left unsaid
—forever to deceive

(Villanova Pennsylvania: March, 2017)