In Due Time
By Ashley O’Hare
Traveling back in time
I found a thirteen year old
lost and alone with bloodshot eyes.
She has not slept all day—
it’s written on her blotchy red face.
The discomfort of her body is evident
as she picks incessantly at her skin.
If it wouldn’t alter the future,
I would spoil her with reassurances.
I would show her music that will quiet her mind.
I would give her the good tissues—
the ones that wouldn’t burn her nose when she cried.
I would give her a cream
to repel the insecurities crawling over her body.
Alas, all I can do is sit
with the trifle comfort that,
in due time,
she will solve the problems
that exist only in her mind.
ashleyohare 