fireflies

They glide together, one word after another, smooth as butter.

 I see my reflection and wish it were different— not prettier, just clearer.

 I only wish to know who I am in the end.

Glasses, milk, peanut butter and jelly—

 I’m writing a song about my many flaws. 

I laugh, I cry, I sit, then stand, then dance. 

Is that my reflection, or just a passing glance?

Words rattle in my skull like nails against a board. 

Pulling them out might hurt— but what else is there to do? 

I sigh. 

Nothing feels the same, and the more I try,

 the less I gain.

Who’s that boy honking outside? 

Does it matter anyhow?

 I’m human too— let me in.

Sleepless nights, a swollen moon.

 I am my mother’s child— too soon? 

Words still stuck, I shake my head, left and right—

 they won’t come out. 

Would you dare to help me now?

And when I’m old,

 and memory fades like smoke,

 come close, my child.

 The road is hard,

 but so are you.

 Chase fireflies through the night,

 walk through tall grass barefoot,

 stay that wild forever.

 The sadness will pass.

 Live each day

 as if it’s your last—

 and one day,

 you’ll see yourself truly,

 among the best.

Mateja