my therapist says
nature nourishes
examine a leaf
trace every vein
look for signs of life
bird chirps
nut-crazed squirrels
spiderweb weavings
forget the poisoned air
microplastic-polluted
raindrops
the never-
ending
existential dread
an impending
expiration date brings
breathe
he’d say
in session
trust you’re safe
ground yourself
in one fleeting
moment and
breathe
so I wrap my arms
around scratchy bark
breathe in out in out in out
just fucking breathe
squirrels scream
or maybe that’s me
seeking serenity
hugging this damn tree
INSTANT NOODLES 