The Lives We Lead

The city’s population
Is a varied one, indeed
Though there’s not a single person
Living just the life I lead.

Still, of course, some similarities
Must certainly exist
But the differences would overtake them
If you made a list.

On the subways and the crowded streets
I stare at every face,
And imagine how my life would be
In this or that one’s place.

It’s a natural curiosity
To wonder just what lies
On the other side of windows
Lit up there before my eyes.

Surely many I might envy;  
Even more would make me sad,
But I’m certain none would be the same
And yes, that makes me glad.

Every life’s unique, though some may hew
More closely to my own;
Yet, like DNA, the lives we lead
Are ours and ours alone.