Ouch
I'm sore all over
The strain of past performances
Tugging at my muscles
It hurts to breathe
The involuntary souvenir
Of the city
Flaring up again
Every time I move

But also lingers
The memories
Of dancing
Performing
Growing
Of laughing with my companions
And friendly competition
And getting high on sleep deprivation
The crazy bus rides
The bustle of the city
The adventures we had

I bring back pain
But more importantly
I bring joy
And experience
And love

But still

Ouch