Momentarily

I had to let go of his hand today.
Our grip was slipping.
Squeezing too hard
it began to hurt.

I swam out above my head today.
Insides trembling when I could no longer touch.
The ends of my hair drifted up to the surface
as my toes searched for ground.

I called his name in my sleep today.
My dreams unaware of our departure.
No silent caress to idle my cries
I jolted in the bed's harsh emptiness.

I left my map at home today.
The city wasn't threatening
in the gentle knowing moonlight
as I made my way to the water's edge.

- eva, 2002