She’s been unemployed
For two years
Since being laid off
From her long-time job.
On the news,
They keep crowing
About how much better
Things are.
She walks in the door
Of a temp agency
Where she’s greeted
Politely.
A young woman
Asks her to have a seat
At a long table and
Fill out an application.
When she’s done,
She’s told to wait for an
Additional screening
By another staff member.
She goes into a small
Room to take a variety
Of tests to determine
What she can do.
She’s told to call
Early each morning
To check for any jobs
That may be available.