recently moved from familiar city haunts
to the wasteland called the suberbs
yearning to be accepted
called a city slicker
hear the word Dago for the first time
drink my first beer
land my first job
walking local drunks home for free draft beer
until an angry wife tries to cut me with a blade.

play the city game for suburban school
not in playground
new Chuck Taylor white top sneakers
play against red haired Opie
elbow digging into his side
knee cracking against his freckled thigh
the hay seed goes down
a chorous of boos descend
from the bleachers
my father turns his head in shame
my girlfriend cries out in embarrasment.

suspended from the team
walk home in crisp February evening
basketball player turned person
take my first shot of the night
a beautiful one handed jump shot
that buries my uniform and jock strap
and desire for acceptance
in the garbage can
I am content for the first time.