Genesis

revisiting a poem from 2021 written in the aftermath of heartbreak & betrayal

I saw the storm clouds roll in 
and silly me
I’ve never been one for umbrellas

Some people like to dive out of planes
I like to get drenched while standing on the corner of 17th & 5th

A panic attack struck suddenly
my body keeled over the slick pavement
then you sent a message so sweet
I tucked away my doubt and thought
the flowers are finally blooming for me

I wonder now
about the farmers who did not make it onto Noah’s ark
when they began to drown
did they also think
Yes, I deserve this. Thank you.

I’m happy to report
I bought an umbrella the other day
the color of cream
naturally 
I’m avoiding removing the tag

For a while I tried to convince myself I never loved you at all
then I looked in the mirror
wrapped my arms around it
held it tight and
forgave

My panic attacks stopped a long time ago
by the way
My hair grows long and beautiful 

Late at night
I kiss my body all over and whisper
point me to where the doves fly south
I promise to never ignore your calls again 

After some consideration
I think I’ll finally remove the tag today
maybe invest in a pair of rain boots too
after all
Spring is coming

-CDB, 2021