Popcorn

I think I know the lady at the end of the street, the one with the gardens

When I am running we exchange glances as she plants lilies in various shades

We talk as the twilight turns to dark ash, 

sit out on the porch and catch fireflies in mason jars--

only for a second, then let them fly.

You tell me about friends I barely know, and I nod and smile at you,

She was told to blend in,
to never show off.

“Women should be seen and not heard” 
or maybe not seen either;

She was told to be smart, 
but of course, not too smart.
you must not scare them away.