I remember
when I was moved by art—
not deadlines.
I remember a time
when all the hurry I knew
was making it to the shore
so I could time my dive
with the Sun’s.
and I remember a time
when that Sun
revolved around me.
I remember a time
when I was not found,
but lost,
at sea—
when I made you my life raft,
drowning us both.
I remember a time
when every star was a poem.
I remember a life
when I was moved to tears
by beauty,
and by careless words.
I hold an armor now.
to protect me,
to protect others—
I don’t know.