Little child

Little child
who taught you
to block out today
and strive for tomorrow,
swimming in front
of waves of dread
[ahead! ahead! always ahead!]
with memory's teeth
snapping at your heels?

Little child,
Who muted your senses
and severed your soul?

I feel your heart race,
your hands shake.

Today is a carton that cannot be sealed
Yesterday's lid is waiting to open
The past is a jack-in-the-box
springing to life.

Little child
hold this day
examine it.
Fling it against the wall
catch it
and wash it with your tears.

Weep, little child, stop running and weep
Lay your head on my breast, I will hold you

so sleep.

sar 2009