Availability (Poetry)

I wanted instant happiness
and went into a shop
to buy a bumper packet
the largest that they’d got.

Upon the shelves in hundreds
were get rich schemes galore
and self-improvement manuals
plus diets by the score.

I asked for what I wanted
received a puzzled look
then by way of answer
they handed me a book

on how to make my fortune
a dozen sure fire ways
to prosper in a fortnight
be wealthy in ten days...

I put it on the counter
and as I shook my head
explained that what I needed
was happiness instead.

They stared uncomprehending
as though they’d never heard
a notion so outlandish
and patently absurd.

I’d have settled for contentment
or hope in a small box
a bag of simple pleasure
but they’d nothing like in stock.

So I left them with a thank you
and a disappointed sigh
knowing such things are on offer
but they’re all in short supply.