The Words

While you were sleeping
I traded the warmth of my bed
for an old hoodie I swiped from my son.

I gave in.

Tossing and turning
in a half-hearted attempt to return to slumber
I gave in to the words.

The heart woke the mind.
The body without a choice
trapped in a conflict
between the heart’s passion and rational thinking.

I may forget this if I don’t write it down.

Turn up the heat and put the coffee on.
I’m on my third cup when the alarm sounds to wake me.
The cat is happy I’m up on this colder than average morning.
His silent meow draws my green eyes to his green eyes
on the other side of the glass.
With a belly full, he curls up on my lap.
He swipes at my hand for affection
as I ignore his needs to satisfy my own.

My fingers touching letters
making words
spilling my blood
laying naked my soul
unearthing what is buried.

Here is my balancing act
my internal battle.
The creative spirit refusing to be squashed
by the girl who must take a shower
make a lunch
get dressed
go to work.
Waiting until the last possible minute to begin the morning routine
always punching the clock a little late.
Blurry spreadsheets
more coffee
lunchtime naps

and stolen moments with the green moleskin notebook that never leaves my side
always knowing that real life will never stifle my true self.