there will be times when
a quarter can make you smile
and days will be spent
poured over newspapers
circling with a marker that you swear
is filled with your blood
you won’t know who’s hands
have found your rib cage
or why they have to push so hard
it’s going to feel like you’re
climbing out of a grave dug far too early
and the next root is three inches too high
and you just can’t reach it
and maybe it’ll be easier if you just
fall
but when you hit the ground
your bones will be dust
and you’ll still have no where to go but
up
but you remember what your friend said
about how even earthworms can move the ground
so kick your foot into the dirt
and make your own stepping stone
fill your fingers with your own breath
carrying hope and everything you learned last time
so they’ll reach a little longer
you’ll see the light and grass will dance again on your toes

you’ve done it
you’re here