He pulled himself away from me
like the medical tape I had to use
for months after six painful knee surgeries
that would leave my skin red and raw,
repeatedly ripped skin the cost of healing
the deep bone and tendons beneath.
Eight hours in and already, well-intentioned friends give advice,
move too quickly towards self-reflection,
ask the probing questions that will illuminate my cultivation of insanity.
But how can I tolerate such sun while my skin remains raw and unprotected?
Exhausted by this merry-go-round of invasive surgeries
that hobbles heart and root.
I take myself to the cool cave of compassion
to let spirit and body heal.
© Sabrina Santa Clara, 2012