Elevator Etiquette

It’s hard to social distance
In an elevator car
For just one other person
Ups the ante way too far.

So when another occupant
Steps in, there is no doubt
That I will just excuse myself
By quickly stepping out.

The regulars respect this,
Riding solo with a mask
And waiting for an empty car
To not be called to task.

But strangers or impatient folk
Or those who doubt the facts
Just waltz right in no matter how
Their rider-mate reacts.

At times like those, which I believe
Will happen more and more,
I wish, instead of 9, I lived
On the 1st or 2nd floor.