At the post office to buy stamps,
workmen outside on tall ladders
putting up a sign.  Inside, notice
says Post Office Closed.  I ask
the man at self-service machine
why.  He says holiday–
Veterans Day, I think.
Then, go ahead of me–
mine will take a while.
I touch the screen
understanding
it will tell me what to do next.
But I know if I need assistance,
the man will help me.
This is the sea I swim in,
small kindnesses from strangers
like buoys bobbing in water.
They keep me afloat.