reading readiness

it feels good to say you're ready,
to pull your sleeves up and scream: bring it on!
but it sure is hard to tell,
to not feel uneasy or concerned.

but those sure are easy to conceal,
to look smug and tough and calm.
after all who is to say
and why the hell worry.

maybe 'cause ready
once read
feeds getting-ready
feeds its self.

and though the reading may
sound elchh blech or duh
you're better off reading
you're better off ready
you're better off

and on and off
and on again

and on.