Playing in the Woods

A story about one of many instances

Have you ever bled?

Not just a nick or scratch -

But to have your flesh torn?

The fibers of your skin dispatched?

Have you ever seen that much red?

Not an ink well that happened to spill -

But like a puddle after a storm?

So vibrant it gives you chills?

Have you ever felt that kind of cold?

Not like a breeze in the Fall -

But to be caught naked in wind and rain?

Have you never felt that at all?

It's something - to bleed.

It's beautiful, and frightening.

It's a curious feeling.

I remember the pain, of course.

The bike had seen worse.

I can't help but recall, 

       Seeing these holes in my shorts...