the first cut is the deepest

i'm always surprised

at a new

cut,

a new slice of thumb or

hand,

a knee,

a chin. or heart.

how the blood spills,

as if it

wants to get out.

so red.

crimson.

bright with life.

but

the pain is less these

days, less than one

might expect.

it's the healing

that takes time, every time.