stampede on campus

i cannot stand the shrieking of the falcons
and the crowds snaking their way between buildings,
and weaving obstacles for the passersby.
it doesn't get to me most days, but
with the heat bubbling through my skin and the clanging
of the cowbells and this recurring thought reminding
me with every pulse of the drumbeat that 
we are not meant to be,
i can't help but succumb to the pressure when
it peeks its head through the door to collect its payment.