When someone stabs me
with a metaphorical dagger
I feel it all too literally.
My chest tightens
strangling my lungs
and leaving me
gasping for air
in vain.
My pulse quickens
and my heart starts pounding
a searing staccato
that soaks me in sweat
and pumps my veins
full of battery acid.
My blood burns
and my stomach churns
through restless days
and sleepless nights
until I find myself
in your company.
You are my sanctuary
one of the few
in my life
who will pull
that metaphorical dagger
out of my chest
and snap it in two
and bandage the wound
with the look in your eyes
and the warmth in your voice
and the fist clenched in anger
at whoever stabbed me.
My chest relaxes
my lungs breathe deep
my heartbeat smoothes
my blood sweetens
my voice lifts in laughter
and I know
that whatever else life brings
on this hallowed ground
I will find peace.