When you fell, I fell harder

I never thought I’d let you slip,

watching you fall, nonchalant,

not caring enough to reach out.

I sat and watched you break,

not sure if I felt relief or pain.

 

You were crying out on the floor,

desperate for a helping hand.

A younger me would have given one,

not waiting for the call,

considering it a duty, not an offer.

 

I think this is the moment I realised

my cynicism had taken root;

it walked in uninvited

a guest I didn’t open the door for,

a bed I didn’t want to make,

my manners took over me,

it needed a place to stay.

-Alex W. (rough first draft)