Gravity

I feel the unbearableweight of death
and the upliftingbeauty of life,
alternating like a current
through the wallsof my conscience.
The touch of my daughter’s
fragile blonde hair,
brushing against me
like a feather in the wind.
Word of the passing
of a loved one far away.
Another hello and goodbye
lost to chance.
My wife’s hot, soft kiss.
Lips, like pillows to sleep on.
Breath, like a warm summer
ice cream melting breeze.
Men caught up in endless war.
The cries of a thousand souls
leaving the earth,
like air escaping
from a day old balloon.
Squeezing a small,animated hand.
Five little sweaty fingers,
poised for life
to create or destroy,
barely strong enough
to open a door,and trusting me to lead.
Another child’s life,
ripped carelessly from a body.
Abuse, neglect and cruelty,
lurking at every turn,
as specters ina lifeless vacuum.
Her profile.
Smooth and flawless contours.
Perfect sand dunes
in a liquid desert.
Blood, gun shots and screams.
Black and white photographs.
Knives, baseball bats and
Poker faced cops.
Flashing lights.
Her laughter.
Suspended in eternity.
Making no sense to the yawning universe,
but still there,in its happy stubbornness.
Sobbing, dark rooms and tears.
Gritting of teeth,punching walls.
Wanting someone back
Cursing the dead air.
Take this away!
Her scent.
Clinging to her clothes.
Salt in the air.
Each long breath I take,
a crashing wave,flooding the senses.
A lifeless corpse.
Peaceful and mocking.
On display for those
gray faced and fearful
to file past and shiver.
I love you, she said.
And death stood still
for one fleeting moment.
I love you, she said.
A star explodes in the infinite black.
I love you, she said.
A bird lands on my bedpost
and sings anunthinkable song.
Tell me again.
And I’ll close my eyesthis time.
Say it slowly.
And touch my face.
I’m taking a picture now.
I’ll hide it.
Forever.
From the flames
of an encroaching sun.

- kevin christensen