Even the Shadow Forgets

I walk through
pleasantries and
promises of friendship
a fog of particles
generated by memory
and courtesy.
.
Those people
just want to be
congratulated and I
am the designated
congratulater.
.
I do my job.
I half-smile
My ears are the
ears of the old,
no time for lessons
and no time
for practice,
in the midst of
action, in the midst of
tomorrow, the gifts
of tomorrow unfolding.