Christina A. Sharik

CHOREOGRAPHY OF PAIN

Back from the war,
back in the States
they’re re-learning to walk,
and cursing the Fates.

The halfback, the goalie,
a reader, a dad ~
all concentrate deeply
on trying to be glad.

Trying to be happy
that they are still here
when some of their comrades
won’t be home this year.

Struggling and walking
(balance is hard)
wondering if they’ll be able
to play in the yard

with the son or the daughter
they’d left behind
reminded that appearance
isn’t how you’re defined.

“Just one more step”
is the therapist’s refrain.

They are the
directors and lead dancers
onstage, in the “Choreography of Pain”.

Author’s Note: For the Wounded