HELLO OLD FRIEND

By Erika Burke Rossa

Hello old friend it’s been a while

The days have melted together like glue

trying to unstick the creases of my brain

sealed tight by complacency. 

When passion grew and knocked 

the banging became a nuisance, 

retreated to the corner and now it 

can’t come out. 

It’s easier to be numb. 

I am not a messy, incessant bother 

Better that I just go away. 

Hiding the rage that lives inside

where the yelp, the cries are silent. 

I am bearable to you.

But… whatever sticks comes unstuck. 

Power swallowed up awakes from sedation. 

Quiet compliance tumults out loudly.

Things that are hidden are not gone.

I can not bear it anymore. 

Hello old friend…