Somewhere between my first and last mistake, I got sunburnt, snowed-in and salt-coated by the sea. I broke glass for emergencies and patched holes, hoping to keep walls from crumbling. I fought dutifully and repented in deep puddles of guilt. I came in first, last and kept the bench warm.

Somewhere between my first and last mistake, I cut trails down snow-covered slopes and through crystal clear waves. I provided blankets for comfort and drew blood with my sharp tongue. I was green, blue, yellow and red, all by instinct. I glossed over the scars of others and gave mine a brilliant shine.

Somewhere between my first and last mistake, I swam lakes and oceans and almost drowned in my unfounded fears. I was attacked and hugged within an inch of my life. From my imperfect frame, I pushed out tears of both sorrow and joy. I dressed up for bullshit and for honour.

Somewhere between my first and last mistake, I drove my friends crazy and drove over posted speed limits. I sang praises, shouted insults, whispered gratitude and proclaimed uncertainties. I imagined epic tales and lost my footing in the slow lane. I broke hearts and welded mine back together several times.

Somewhere between...

B. Toner December 2023