Server Pantoum

I schlep food to the masses.
They never stop coming;
stuffing and shoveling food
into their faces.
 
They never stop condescending.
I see the arrogance when I look
at their faces
to take their orders.
 
I see mimicked disrespect when I look
at their children who think I live
to take their orders.
The men, the women,
 
and their children all think that
they have the power because
the men, the women, the parents
control the tip.
 
Ultimately, the power belongs to me,
truth be told.
I control the safety of their food
From the kitchen to their table.
 
Truth be told
it’s a long way
from the kitchen to the table
and food sabotage is easy and discreet.
 
Reciprocity is integral to respect
so take care of your server.