Lungs collapsed like buildings in the aftermath of an earthquake

A ripple spreading through bones and veins

The pulsations of a heart reduced to a stutter

A mere flutter

And things are falling

And crashing

And crumpling

Like leaves in the wake of children’s play

Who am I to withstand the destruction?

Who am I to endure the pain?

Who am I to resurrect what will only collapse

And fall,

And crumble,

Again.