Why are we afraid to sign up as number one on a piece of paper,

first reader in a setting?

A coffee shop, library, reading, or celebration.

Why are we so shy to start the race for others to follow?

We are easily remembered as we are forgotten.

Being first helps that shy guy in the back row

resisting feel the comfort of a room.

As a new Poet Laureate recites and remembers those we lost,

I feel comfort of going first today,

raising the glass and the bar.

The futuristic laureate just might be sitting in that back seat

I know I sat that in shyness seat once.

Reading is like dancing even when we feel insecure and silly,

crowds appreciate those who have balls to stand out.