Between the Clouds

In the air of the putrid morning
the smog crouches
behind the sky scrapers,
waiting to strike.
The early traffic is unaware,
eyes glazed, sucking starbucks
from their green straws.
Inside the walls of their cars they feel safe.
The smog eats exhaust.
I look down and soon all is white.
Above me, the marshmallows roll.
I reach out to taste it and imagine
the sticky sweetness on my tongue,
but it is too far away.
I feel safe like the people in their cars.

Fear

Fear stung me,
paralyzing what was left.
 Feet burning
on fire that you started,
blisters bubbling in defeat.
 Failure,
what I didn't mean to open,
like a box with pretty wrapping,
 you are the bow,
 tempting me to fondle you.
Tell me how I can stay,
rolling in the mud without a care.
This is easy,
but fighting you is hard.
You're in my mind,
speaking to the dark within me.
Drug dealing your way back in,
you come back at me with fire again.
I don't want anymore scars.

The Twins

 The taste of cranberry juice was on my lips

as we ran down the carpeted stairs.
My brothers smiled and giggled,
urging my mom to turn on the T.V.
Buzz Lightyear would be on soon.
My brothers’ happy matching faces
snuggled with me on the faded yellow love seat,
and I sat between the twins.
My mom’s face dropped,
as she stared at the screen.
The towering twins,
fiery and smoking,
stood tall, but shaking.
My face flushed,
and I gagged on the cranberry aftertaste.
Unaware, my brothers begged to change the channel.
Looking to my mom for hope,
I saw her gasp and gawk,
brow furrowed, lips pursed,
and I held tight to the twins. 

Constellation Eyes

I go back to that silent evening

when we were more than friends,
but less than lovers.
Outside, we stood inches apart,
gazing at the stars.
You pointed out Orion’s belt;
I looked, but couldn’t see the shape.
Wind gently played with my hair.
You calmed it with your soft touch,
tucking it behind my ear.
All I wondered was if you loved me,
but I just smiled and nodded
and stared at your brown eyes
that sparkled brighter than your constellations.
Night grew colder and I wanted to step closer.
You offered me your jacket
and slipped it on over my shoulders.

Dream Dance

I see you in my dreams at night.

You take my hand and spin me in to dance.
I’ve never been so light on my feet
than that night that I was asleep.
I can barely breathe
in this vortex of you.
I see straw, tin, and lion fur,
and hear your cackling laughter.
Face me with your nose;
make me think I am in control.
I will always be here,
caught in this twister.
Hold me close and I look in your eyes,
red as rubies in the night.
Blink and I’ll be home.