I never though I would be able to breathe again

To push my head above the water

Gasp for air, stay afloat

My mind still flashing images

Of the dark sea below

The ball and chain on my ankle

It pulled me down

But I endured, held my breath

And once I reached the lowest low

The very bottom of the sea

There was no sand

There was a surface

I thrash my arms now

I call for help between deep breaths

Please come

Rescue me

I have seen the darkness of the sea

I am ready to be saved

To start again

To rest

To breathe

Like flames, like blood, but darker still.

Like roses, like hearts of love and goodwill.

Like the sunset, just near the end.

Like the lipstick of your best friend.

Dark and elegant, like a thin-drawn pen line.

Like on the shelf, you vintage wine.