compliments

Compliments like shells

Stretched out across the shoreline where the tide swallows sandcastles

And the unsuspecting toes of the builders

The shells lock their kisses with the sand

Foam tickles their backs, willing them to let go

Let themselves be carried into the vast unknown

Compliments like smiles

Spray-painted across the old, wooden fence

A crow perched silently atop the decaying wall protecting nothing, dividing morals

Compliments like rubies

Sparkling as they latch onto the string of yarn

Informality peeks through the family of jewels

Appearance not always withheld

Compliments like ice

Slowly melting away in your open, hollow chest