“The only reason we don't open our hearts and minds to other people is that they trigger confusion in us that we don't feel brave enough or sane enough to deal with. To the degree that we look clearly and compassionately at ourselves, we feel confident and fearless about looking into someone else's eyes. ”
― Pema Chodron
FIELD NOTES #38
The whole world pressed against your bent back
following the curve of your spine
the way the sun dips past the ridgeline
and settles just south of the horizon,
your black veil like the night sky, your tears
running down your face like shooting stars
your grief hidden from view save for the slight
shudder of your shoulders as you stand
over the open earth and wait for the sky to weep.
The rain never comes. And by the time
you say goodbye, the sun settles for the night,
your only company the shattered starlight
passing through your broken gaze,
all the world silent save for the steady
beating of your heart and the silent rise
of your barren chest.
I try to picture life without you,
try to imagine a world where your absence
makes sense. But all I can seem to muster
is the rustle of your hair, the wind winding
through the grass like my fingers passing
through your tattered mane, my lips
agaisnt your pale cheek: a protest against the world.