Introduction

Do they know something
we do not, or do
they set the standard
to which our perception
will align toward when
one neighbour welcomes
another to the street
in an open and friendly
manner, both smiling,
introducing themselves,
taking brief and casual
measure by first impressions
only to have the episode
concluded by one
household pet waging
instant attack on the other,
as both sides withdraw,
smiles intact and
attitudes forever hardened.