by Kimberly A. Zanini

If I hadn't gotten lost, I never could have found myself,

and for that, I feel eternally grateful.

Thank you so much for slamming the door in my face.

Thank you for stepping on me like grape gum on the ground.

Without you, my life may have had much more simplicity.

Fortunately, you followed along, tying knots in my shoelaces.

You grounded me.

Our friendship withered away in the blazing summer sun,

leaving me to wander in the desert of uncertainty.

And for that, I thank you.