"Arise!" I hear an old woman sing.
I could grumble like a glut
and pishaw her joy like an ungrateful
spoiled child ******
from poverty,
punches, and
poor grades.

I could arise dancing,
waving arms over head,
smile mapped from cheek to cheek,
feet tapping on a
chilly
tiled
floor.
drinkin' my oj,
shufflin' my good day,
off to school and away
up.

I could lie still
and wish to die
slow.
Never move.
stare out my bright
window.
Waste inside more.
Close my eyes,
go back to sleep.

I could middle ground,
roll out of bed,
turn to the left,
scratch my hair mess,
hate today, miss my dreams,
remember that one
plan I'd made yesterday
to see.
Turn on the music box,
find a harmonious voice,
cry from this strangle I'm in,
and hope for one more sin.