I have bled
and felt the raw corners
of suffering
the second hand punctuating
throbbing of pangs.
I have skirted the heights of
ecstasy
believed I could hold
no more joy.
I have sat in stillness
and felt the depths of solitude.
I have cowered in fear
and pleaded for safety.
I have been the object of
adoration
and of hatred.
I've felt the pride of birth
and the desolation of death.
I have given, without thought
of recompense
and taken in direst need.
As I live and touch
those around me
and stories intermingle with
my own,
I am reminded of the
length and breadth of
the human heart
and take nothing
ever
for granted.