The Standstill

(The following poem is also posted
on my Tumblr! The link to that
is in my "link list" under my archive!)

***

If time tells the story
of two young lovers,
then time, slow down,
so that in this fulfilling moment,
we may stay together and kindle the perfect flame.
We set our souls on fire-
we ignite each other and set off
the most extravagant fireworks.
And, when the fireworks become frightening,
with their trembling tremendous roars and sparks,
let us keep in each other’s arms,
and allow us the waters of peace,
so that in the pounding ripples of warmth in our hearts,
we may stay together and stay safe.
Sure, we may burn each other,
and we may burn ourselves,
but it was once said that a little heat never hurt anyone-
but when it leaves scars and wounds
with anxieties that never leave,
let us writhe in pain, and let us come back so that we may be comforted
by the love in ourselves.
They said time would one day dwindle
like the water from the dripping faucet,
and like the flame from the fire.
They told us to live in this slow-motion while time sped up.
But it kept us together.
And as it kept us together,
we found our own way to thrive,
in the standstill of weathering disasters and silent breakdowns.
Time, slow down, and keep us. 

-LJ
18 & 20 March 2017