Flip Flops

I stand on the edge of the front lawn, because that’s the only place I’m allowed to smoke. I’m wearing a pair of ugly flip-flops.

They’re blue, and a size or two too large for my feet. They sort of make me feel awkward and angry. I don’t care for flip-flops, but I needed footwear that I could slip on and off easily. This pair only cost me about $5. Despite their utility, the shoes annoy me. Maybe they remind me too much of my Floridian upbringing; tacky and disposable.

Cars pass, and the strangers inside sometimes gawk, or giggle, as they drive past. A trucker gives me a honk and a thumbs up. In response to my shaved head? My smoking? My fashion sense? Ironic, or sincere? I’m not totally sure.

A couple of normals drift by slowly. A couple, of normals, a man and a woman…

He stares me down. He looks at me like I’m the end of the world; a visual representation of everything he’s been taught to fear. I only need a second to recognize his expression as one of contempt.

She glances up, demurely. She considers me like I’m a curious genisus; a suggestive invitation to a party she secretly wants to attend. I only need half a second to gauge her expression as one of interest. 

I look back, unflinching. Not because I’m fearless; because I feel unashamed, perhaps even sympathetic. 

I feel kind of sorry for them both. Because he’s got nothing more important to hate, and she’s got nothing more profound to be inspired by — than some silly bald girl, just trying to enjoy a cigarette. 

Conservative social norms remind me of my flip-flops. Despite their utility, they annoy me…

Tacky and disposable. 

Sep. 17 2012
#perspective #musing #prose #memoir #creative nonfiction
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Notes

  1. postponedfeelings reblogged this from ordinarywonder
  2. submarinedreams said: This left me with a big smile and a strong desire to make out.
  3. ordinarywonder posted this