How to Be '22'

How to pretend to be 22:

Pry yourself from the books

Even if they are far more interesting

Than anyone in the bar.

Try on a shirt

To reveal the freckles

Nestled safely under cardigans.

Paint a smile

With drugstore lipstick

And erase any line of imperfection.

Ignore the discomfort

Of the stranger staring 

In the mirror.

Fill a cup with water and ice

But say it’s a vodka soda

Hold it until they stop asking.

Feign interest

In the song playing

And nod along to the unknown words.

Stop looking at the clock

Start laughing at the guy

Who thinks his jokes are funny. 

Take a picture

To share with the world

This artificial idea of fun.