Obligations

"You're supposed to take the tag off"

The child, my peer, informed me.

But what if I want it there?

How else am I to remember where I bought this mess of cloth

And how many hours I worked to wear it?

"You're supposed to wear the belt"

But what if I want my pants to sag?

What if I'm certain my hips will see that no one catches sight

Of more than they're intended to?

"You're supposed to tie your laces"

But what if I want to trip?

How else will I learn my lesson

To keep balance whenever possible?

I'm sure if you repeat yourself

I'll understand you better

And I'm willing to see it your way

For as long as I can.