Humanity Is Safe

HUMANITY IS SAFE

They danced that dance,

That same listless, well-known step

keeping us around,

Ensuring the continuation of

the 7.4 billion of us already here.

Started with the approach

Shaking hands, or furtive hugs

Each ending awkward, but still exciting

Seated, clearing their throats

Then a satisfied giggle

The pattern of her dress is complimented

And his striped shirt is also nice

And where did you find those glasses?

Food is ordered and arrives

Limited clanking and clattering

Of nickel on ceramic

Each interrogated on their livelihood,

Their family composition,

Relationship with their mother,

Oh but theirs passed away

A proper muttered apology and sincere

Sentimentality

Assurance that the other really is human.

Eating, too, evidence not of humanity

But of human-ness

Or at least that they were raised well.

It stops them from talking

Allowing the sting to subside.

Appropriate length of silence

Chewing

Some statement of the weather

Back on track as the music ends.

For good or ill,

Humanity is safe.