How are you today?
By Wen Zhai
What
am I supposed to say
I’m not
Ok
but
it’s too long
a story
it can’t be
finished
in one say
I won’t be
able to start
before you
mindlessly walk away
What
can I say
I’m irritated
How can you play
with personal feelings
like that
by carelessly asking
how are you today
If I may choose
I prefer
the causal greeting
of my country
–吃了吗？
—Have you eaten?
by the time
of the day
you mutually know
whether
you are asked
about breakfast, lunch or supper
it’s language economy
Now it’s out
of context
in foreign soil
it’s a little bit silly
but you
at least have
something safe
to say
Yes
I have
and you share all
your gourmet
food or
No
I haven’t
and tell me about all
that caused
your delay
At least
it’s safer
being far
from emotions
this way