The commute

As I walk down the street
a tall man appears in the distance
singular along the horizon
broad shouldered
in the tangential light of dawn.

As I walk down the street
steadily approaching
I imagine him--
muscles rippling
swinging with confidence
sprung from experience
expedience and pride.

As I walk down the street
our progress even
I see he is not as I saw.
My rendering shattered
I avert my eyes
defer to his step.

As I walk down the street
right before my passing
I admit
his height no taller than mine
his shoulders no wider than mine
his strength no greater than mine
and I resume my stride.