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.
***
About the Creator
KJ Aartila
A writer of words in northern WI with a small family and a large menagerie.
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More stories from KJ Aartila and writers in Poets and other communities.
- Supported by: Ollie
Why Indie and Otis Came to Love OllieSupported by: Ollie
Like most dog moms, the best part of my day is the time spent with my dogs. I have an 8 year old Pittie mix named Indie and a two year old Frenchie mix named Otis. Indie is my soul dog and the love of my life. She has inspired me to become a photographer, a business owner, and a creator, among other things. She is the smartest and most loyal creature who selflessly makes sure that I’m happy above all else. Most of the time, she knows how I’m feeling before I do. When we’re together, she’s my shadow–never more than a few inches from me at all times.
By Brittney Avery5 days ago in Petlife
Comments (8)
Remember the phoenix gets reborn from its ashes. Always. Never fear, those preened feathers are just waiting for rebirth.
Lovely verse and poignant thanks for sharing.
Gorgeous imagery here KJ! Brilliantly done!
Lovely! We only ever accrue it to give it away. The sun burns without knowledge of itself, whereas those that drink its light believe themselves their own animators. Irony abounds!
The phoenix would definitely fly! Sending you lots of love and hugs! ❤️
Beautiful, from captured/deflating balloon to preening/healing phoenix. I'm hearing shades of Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats" in this (though it sounds more like dismissal & neglect than cheating, but still....).
Magnificently written!!! Love it!!! Sending positive vibes & virtual hugs!!!💕❤️❤️
Heartfelt and powerful. Hope you are okay!