Time has passed.

Gone with the ticking of the clock.

But occasionally, time does not pass fast enough.

Hindered not by time itself but what flows with it.

Obstacle and trap that is hard to reset once sprung.

I am left broken and bruised by the encounter so I wish I had skipped the encounter entirely.

***

You do not have to tell me where the damage is.

It reminds me of itself well enough.

Clinging to my skin like a rusty needle.

I barely have to touch it to feel the pain all over again.

Sensitive and ugly in a way I struggle to hide.

As obvious to others as myself.

***

It never lasts forever.

Metered by the ticking of the clock.

A presence that passes away slowly.

Healing fueled by every breath.

Yet it hurts.

I cannot forget it quickly enough.