Your First Idea Is Never The Best Idea

That’s why you gonna find a second

a third, a fourth . . . a tenth

You gotta keep going ’till one of them feels right

First idea: Bonsai tree leaves, new growth

Second idea: Velvet bodice, handsewn dress

Third idea: Spilt ink on paper, stained fingertips

. . .

Ninth idea: Leather arm brace, nothing to protect

Tenth idea: Sheer curtains, block out sight, not light

Shame, none of these ideas feel right

Alright fine then . . .

Bonsai tree, yellow leaves,

Velvet bodice, handsewn dress,

A hand that reaches, ink-black fingertips,

A porcelain cup she fills,

And feeds the dying life,

Leather arm brace clutching a pale arm,

She smiles gently,

For she has nothing to protect,

Sunlight streams through misty curtains

Concealed from cutting eyes

She swallows the sun

And allows only the good to stream in