Last night

I felt warmth

 

Dreaming of tight hugs and

Kind words rolled into my ears

 

I regret to inform you

That

In spite of his best efforts

His sincerest tries

 

He---

 

I went back to the dark place

Where kind words are plentiful

But razor-sharp and cold

Like fresh gravel on bare feet

 

Where there is no strength

Save for the solidarity

Of those that take the time

 

To bury me deeper

 

I’ve been kicked so many times

I begin to see myself as

A tough piece of rubber

Curled up and oblivious

 

With my hands over my ears

And my eyes shut

I can’t see

 

Not because I’m unable to

But because I’m sickened

 

Every single time I hear

My own voice

 

And I only want to sleep

Please understand

 

I just want to sleep