The first thing said to me
this morning
was a request.
The halls were empty but for us and one more,
the linoleum tiles echoing with far away feet.
Binder open,
eyes fearful,
he asked what the homework had been.

The second thing said to me
this morning
was an accusation.
People moved around us in tides of sleepiness,
the ceilings shouted for us to all shut up.
Hair askew,
eyes concerned,
she called me out on the cuts on my arms.

The third thing said to me
this morning
was a message.
Music summoned us to class,
teachers shouted for prompt attention.
Backpack sideways,
handshake feeble,
his glance told me, "have a good day."