Imperfections

Held up to the public gaze
My imperfections shouting
Back at me
Why can't you take a risk
Professionally
They're grooming you
Job descriptions handed to you
Before the public posting
Invitations to San Jose
In two fucking weeks
Conference last week
And next
We'll pay for your sub
They say
Tell us what you need
You have to act fast
5 applicants already
Submit your papers now
Everything's a blur
A rush of decisions
With no chance to reflect
Or breathe
She buckles under pressure
Succumbing to the present
The future already behind her
Asking questions
And getting only silence
Or vague generalities
She is a teacher