I try to hold myself
Deeply and with such care.

My mind bounces around like
A jumping jack
Or Lima beans
My mama buys a new home
Says get ready to pack up your room
I notice my love and the closest to me
Not there.

I hike through it
Breaking a sweat
Noticing how I have to ask
I have to ask
I hate asking.

I get strong I get lean
I look in the mirror
But not for long
Not long.

I don’t have the energy I think
My skin chapped in the wind
I keep myself upright
And glide along.

Kicking up speed
I felt the prettiest today
I am whimsical and silly
Bold and mighty
Vulnerable and temperamental
Passionate and effortlessly kind.

Shoulder to shoulder
With myself.