body, friend

sometimes foe, until I remember all she does for me

this vessel is a vehicle

during long hours of labor

though tired, and restless

she will move if you tell her to

you imperfect being; stitched together by cell, atom, and element
a magnificent manifestation of universe and constellation

you, darling

are an amalgamation of the genesis of our first born star

take this vessel, take this temple

give her a name, a purpose, a feeling

admire the way she takes care of you, heals you

lifts scar tissue over broken skin and calls you whole again

she asks for nothing in return

you, her caretaker, too broken to give her your love

yet she forgives you

cleansing your blood,

replenishing herself a million times over

seven years of rebuilding, seven years a new body

your ribcage giving your lungs room to breathe

though cracking and aching,

falling apart at the seams,

she forgives you

“i was born to keep you living, tangible

i will stop at nothing to keep you safe”

your heart, beating softly in your chest

listen closely

with every thump, you can hear her say

“i forgive you"