I used to think
I was pretty good at reading people –
at least sometimes.
Now I’m not so sure.
Every uniqueness
weirdness
quirk
idiosyncrasy
is so much bigger –
like I can’t put all the pieces together
to mean anything.
I miss big chunks –
even simple things like
people’s clothes
hair
shoes.
I usually notice someone
with red eyes
head down
like they don’t want to talk.
(I think.)
It's more apparent to me –
something out of the ordinary
out of their normal behavior.
Should I let that person go?
Or run after them awkwardly
and ask if things are okay?
(Because what else do I ask?)
I’m not sure I even know them more than “hi”
so what am I supposed to say?
Are the other things I completely missed
essential too?
Do clothes say something about a person
even when that isn't intended
or wanted?
Maybe.
They’re basic – things that everyone should notice.
Obvious.
Right?
I should be paying attention.
Those are the conversations around me, at least.
New fashion trends
boots
haircuts.
I probably can’t even say
what color shirt that person was wearing.
(Do I ever look at someone’s shoes?)
I can only say
they appeared
to be their normal self
or
something was off.
Maybe.
I can’t always pinpoint the specifics –
which makes me question if I noticed
anything significant
in the first place.
And even if I am able to spot meaningful things,
how can I possibly keep up
with everyone?
How do I notice everything new
different
off
important
with every
one?