Box of matches,
Strike me and I’ll burn
Drown it all in gasoline
Engulfed in flames,
I am reborn

Blistered and bruised,
Beaten and torn,
Miles gone by the dozens
These shoes are worn,
Full of holes and rips,
Scuffs and tears,
Feet ache and bleed

To ashes, I must return,
To ashes, I shall be again,
Scatter me to the wind,
Remnants of my body
Merely a vessel of flesh,
Through stories you keep my soul
To return once more

Open and kind,
I shall return your warmth,
Harsh and cruel,
I shall return your fiery hatred
Let me go, drift from sight,
I shall still hold your memory.

- Jay M
February 2nd, 2023