Today I tried three different pairs of shoes
before I strapped these sandals on my feet.
I’m careful – if I incorrectly choose,
I’ll pay for it on path or stairs or street.
I hate a heavy shoe or heated foot,
and blisters turn me negative and gruff.
When I select the proper shoes to put
around my feet, that’s happiness enough.

I advocated function long ago
against my roommate’s preference for form.
And I was right – we’re middle-aged – we know
pedestrian requirements. Too warm
or tight or high of heel we will not wear.
We’ve learned to treat extremities with care.