How to Heal When Wounded

Compose yourself. 

Listen for a lull in the struggle.

Then look around this cold damp battlefield
and notice who stands with you still:

Who extends to you grace?
Presumes your innocence?
Kneels in thanksgiving–beside nodding
buttercups full of shimmering morning dew–
for having survived the night, with you.

Then choose them too.

And let all those you've defended
who have not defended you, drift free –
like the ethereal sweet scent
of a warm but distant memory.