Watch Me Fly Away

Watch Me Fly Away

My adoration was expansive,

smiling for attention; a gauntlet thrown.

I saw you that time when I was a balloon

trapped by the solid ceiling, holding my flight in check.

Finally, I deflated.

***

Here you are again, not even present,

but your voice is clear - "You are not to be valued.”

I remain an unworthy victim of your selfish love,

gifted and re-gifted until the thoughts became ingrained.

***

Today, I’m sad – I can feel your flinty stare glaring from my eyes,

trying to spark fires from cold ash.

Maybe I’m grieving for a life that never was real.

***

But the Phoenix will fly,

healing the world with its tears.

***

I’ve preened my feathers.

***