“Coping Mechanism”
By Ashley O’Hare
The bruises have faded over time.
Muscles always regenerate their strength.
As long as I keep my mind occupied,
everything will be alright.
Dark, gritty memories can be
crushed,
blended, and
stirred
into smooth paints
to recreate the magical
starry night sky.
Cruel current circumstances
inevitably become
mangled, manageable memories.
Knock the breath from my lungs.
Shove me down.
Even if you draw blood,
you will never break me.
I won’t let you break me.
ashleyohare 