Know Your Worth
You’re a world renowned concert violinist
playing a Stradivarius in the metro station
People hustle to work in the morning
and shuffle home in the evening,
and you are just one more thing
between them and the turn-stile.
One more ask that can’t be answered.
One more concern that won’t be considered.
For the whisper of a tip, you learn to smile
and tip your hat without taking
your hands off and risking the masterpiece.
You thought you’d bring something unique
to the masses, and please, understand
their disapproval has nothing to do
with your talent or work habits.
The sad reacts have everything to do
with context and timing. You’re upset
because you’re finding your self worth
is more fragile than that ancient
violin you’re holding.