numb,
eventually
we all become
numb of
life's subtractions

its vortex fails
to unsteady us,
its impact abates
to that of fractions

its aroma no longer
carries hints
of spice nor
offensive odor

to thine eyes
its once
brilliant hue is now
an ebon color

its touch
no longer unbearable
no longer a
raging fire

as years pass by
life's subtractions
just never appear
so dire

it feels cold
and then it
feels warm

but it always
feels warm
with the addition of
a new day's morn

numb as life's years
pass us by but
passionately alive
when we are born