East River

the mingled stench of green seaweed and salty waves 

cascades the nostrils of the adolescent girl.

peaceful sways of pink cherry blossom trees, hard to resist, 

climb over barbed gates and rusty ‘NO TRESPASS’ sign. 

bum planted upon the rocks, feet dig into soft sand,

her eyes roll above.

taste of blue cotton candy skies fills her eyes and eases the heart 

as rich breezes blew softly, 

     Anxious...               

             ...Distress

                    Degrade...

...Hopeless        

                Frustration...

                           ...Miserable 

                         No...

                           ...More    

                    Tension...                         

rushes out of her body.

exhale of relief. 

face spreads with a smile

things will get better.