I wake early
pull in available air
push out what I have to offer

shoulders ache, neck aches, hands and feet
stretch as though to reach

it may be years until my body lets go
all the tiny tensions I ask it to hold

that press their prints into my face
that speak in my tones
that angle my head
that walk as I walk

I thought
dear body
these tensions might keep me safe
from old disappointments reprising

I was mistaken good donkey
I have hobbled you

I would love to know
how giving and supple you might be
am sad to have missed your grace

loyal flesh
forgiving animal
even now you allow a soft smile to lift

ready for work

Poem: Jo Mariner
Image: Pearson Scott Foresman, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons