Waiting — A Flash

At the top of the hill, I wait for my normal breath to return and gaze back on the trail hill I just sprinted up. The waves of Lake Michigan are crashing on the shore caressing the sand. Partners forever. I am glad I decided to run without headphones today. My thoughts are bombarding me with enough noise as it is. The same phrase is on repeat How did you not see?

My life will not be the same when I return to the car. The papers will be signed. The friends and assets will be divided, and not to be confused. It is a moment of before and after.

I have beat myself up with an emotional bat and today I physically match. My thighs and calves are burning from running in the sand. The small of my back is wet with sweat and ache. A trickle of sweat is making the space between my breasts itch but I can’t get to it because of the layers. I do not know how long I have been out here but I have run the same loop three times. My heart still works. It is pounding trying to get out but I have to keep it caged at least 4 seasons. It needs to heal before it can be open to breaking again.