The Fool's Night Out

Everyone laughs at the fool,
even though he
   dresses up nicely
   combs his hair
   shows up on time
   makes a good faith effort
   converses politely
   inquires earnestly
   smiles on cue
   doesn't monopolize
   nods with sympathy
   acts like a gentleman
   envisions fine futures
   compromises
   endures indignity
   smothers his protests
   stifles his outrage
   swallows his pride
   receives his punishment
   bleeds like a martyr
   looks at his watch
   utters excuses
   flees into exile
   seeks cheer from the cold.