The left-wheel of my shopping cart is wobbly
I buy my groceries, my citrus and my beef, lopsided.
Would I finish just as quickly if I did it all backwards?
squeezed the mush, assessed the ripeness of avocados, opposite
of the way in which I came? Would I find cheaper seltzer
if I started on the left end of the aisle rather than the right ?
My father is ambidextrous. I’m tired of pretending he isn’t important to me.
As a child, I got so woozy, keeping track of left and right.
Once, I was bored, and practiced doing chores with my opposite hand,
and did it all twice as good. Regardless, of my direction, my motive or map,
I’d probably have still picked out Strawberry Peach La Croix. Once I settle, select
each careful purchase— lest I have to go to the store twice in the same week—
I wander, I have found that when I have spare time, I meander,
look at things I don’t need, like: new bedsheets, geometric nightstands, anti-
wrinkle facial cream, feet exfoliant, aloe vera, a raw coconut, a new planner—
finally ! that magical thing that will make my life feel put together ! Until I
remember, that I have bought 3 this year. After a few months, they are all
messy. My shopping cart squeaks as I careen down the aisle of mirrors.
Something about seeing my reflection in succession feels worth
mentioning, or remembering.
