Mercy

I didn’t realize
beaming sun rays don’t
always burn hot and

I fell in.

It was early summer
when bright days
feel fresh and breathe hope.

Maybe that’s why
I thought I was okay.
Said I was okay.

I fell in, but

I’m okay.
I’m okay.
I’m really okay.

The water was crisp,
Stung my skin
a new sensation.

I’m okay. 
I’m okay.
I’m really okay.

Concentrated on straight lines
on surface sounds
on feeling light.

The blue seemed extra blue
and my hazy memory
served me up silver and gold.

I’m okay.
I’m
…

They say a warmth
sets in before
the freeze stills you.

A numbness.
Nature’s show of mercy.
That was summer.

I’m slipping further
into the sea, the shock of my 
glass life shattering

appearing now in my 
peripheral vision,
a wave gathering speed.

It’s winter now.
The water is frigid.
I’m calling mercy’s name.