Never let me know you are looking.
Don’t ask too much.
Be around, not too close.
If you see the inside of me, don’t mention it.
Don’t take notes.
If something appalling should fall out of my head,
don't pick it up.
Ignore the inconsistencies.
Speak clearly.
Don’t speak.
Look for the mist of breath between my words.
If I hold my breath, hold my breath.
Don’t trace the scars.
Sometimes I like to take off my clothes and look at my naked skin,
just checking.
The hairs on the back of my neck are kept clipped short, never shaved.
My dog stands guard over me as I sleep.
I will not talk about it.
I won’t shut up.
I have a foul mouth.
When I lick my lips, I am not tasting victory.
I've read everything, but am commenting here because how many times can you say, "Oh my God, this is great stuff."
ReplyDeleteI think this one is my favorite, though that's not saying much since so many are close. But the last line on this one is so delicious.
I agree with the preacherman. That last line pisses me off just because I did not write it.
ReplyDeleteYes, Christy,I just read something from Velveteen Rabbi and thought the same thing.
ReplyDeleteThis touches the bottom of my soul... over and over... each and every time I read it.
ReplyDeleteDefenitely your best one.
ReplyDeleteI like the "Speak clearly/Don't speak" lines. They capture a bit of the ambivalent feelings going on.
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ReplyDeletePowerful, powerful stuff.
ReplyDeleteVery moving. The poem is rock solid by itself, but is especially moving after reading your story.
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