-For C.

Excerpts from a Life’s Survival Guide

If nothing else, I’m a survivor;
this is what I will tell you: I am that cat—
whether pushed or jumping—who lands
on her feet, licks her wounds, and saunters
away. Rule #5: Never react, when a reaction
is so clearly sought. See I know the game
I choose to play, nonchalant.

When the life plan you so carefully sketched, begins to burn, in
from the edges; gently blow out the flames
and make your life a phoenix: rise. Rule # 2:
Follow the flow of the river—not rushed, in the drive
towards a destined destination—but, be aware
of the ever apparent undercurrent.

Rule #4: Never tread where your footprints
are not welcome. My arms
are halfway open, my heart is protected, and my vision
has been cleared. Rule #8: Everyone from sinner
to saint; has the innate ability to be like nitrogen
both, enriching and explosive.

Is this what you needed to hear? What we
are all well aware of—how humans
are dichotomous? So am I…defying your desire
for clear explanations, perfect in my paradoxes. Rule #1:
Walk your path, avoiding the obvious obstacles; never intentional
in your injury, nor accepting of the intentional injury
of yourself. So saying this more simply:
I survive out of necessity, navigating the narrow
passageways allowed; so should we pass, closely
know that there is always solid, safe shelter
in me.