I used to think of death
Visualizing my own funeral
The tears and disappointment draped across familial faces
I often found myself unable to leave my room
Daydreaming while pushing 85 of the highway of swerving into semis or the median
I would stare at a bottle of vitamins and wonder if too much was the perfect blend
I used to shed tears with others as they spoke of their troubles and internalize their pain to be my own; for a fire needs a home to continue its burn.
I dreamt of my own death and wished it many of times.
Even now, I wake up in a cold sweat because the thoughts come back every so often.
I cope with the terror and affirm that I’ll pass while young, but my expiration isn’t until decades down the line.
For every smile, there’s a remnant of deepened pain that I won’t admit to or ever share.
For every smile, I’ll reflect on the many tears I and many others have let flow around in memory.
For every smile, know that I’m going to cherish our joy and laughter of that very moment when it’s time for me to go.
Like many others, today nor tomorrow will be our calling day.