I turned my back to the darker world many years ago.
I trained my focus on lighter things and happier sounds.
I let myself laugh at things that I wouldnt have before.
I let myself cry when babies laughed or someone, with
Just the right inflection and sincerity, said, God Bless
America or Look at that rainbowthere.
But the darkness didnt turn its back on me, for sure.
Hes kept me in his gaze like a lions on a gazelle.
However faster I laughed or cried, he slithered
All the faster. Patience. Waiting outs his game.
Look how easily you laugh, Amy said at Uncle Bills.
And still, behind me, sat the darker world eating pancakes.
The darker world has overtaken my decelerating stride.
Hes before me now, and, though I turn, he scampers
Back to face me head-on. I turn in circles, avoiding him.
A duller mind would think that darkness lay all around.
I dont. I know its only a shadow. But, God, how I wish
Hed slow down, too, and turn his back on me.