I Never Used To

You know, I never used to wear my seat belt

Not because I didn't value my life

but rather because I considered it an unnecessary precaution.

I had never been into an accident before

and have yet to be in one since

the only time I ever came close to losing my life

was the day I collided with you

Not that I hit you with a car, mind you

nor did you hit me

it was just the way you left me breathless

I felt like I got hit by a truck

certainly part of me died and was only resuscitated later

by your kiss

And now, whenever I get into my car, I fear for my life

I never used to wear a seat belt but somehow

you make me care

I still don't think I'll get into an accident while I'm driving

But I err on the side of caution

because if I got into an accident I would be over

Life would be over

We would be over

and that is a risk I'm not willing to take anymore

There is so much to live for, with you in my life

I never used to wear my seat belt, but now it's compulsory

And like breathing, I see it as a means to an end

where the only end is seeing you again.

Reviews

[Carol Cashes]

Amazing how the little things you cared nothing about when you were alone, now have significance - like your seat belt...and life insurance. Like vitamins...and job security. Like home security...and vehicle maintenance. Well done, taking such a small, albeit important act and relating it to staying around for one you love.

[alanwgraham]

This is great. The way you have intertwined your motivation to wear the seatbelt with the chance of losing your new found love is brilliant.
Well done on this subtle piece of writing,
Alan