by LJ Frank

Flashes of memories that stretch into the distance

on a two lane highway across the plains

driving with the windows partially open

in the warmth of a spring day,

a glance in the rearview mirror

looking at places that speed into the past,

hands grip the rich leather wrapped steering wheel

a bare wrist missing a watch –

forgotten in a hotel drawer

keeping time in the darkness

as the second-hand ticks away

of faded dreams never lived,

another look become moments worth of stare

eyes witness to a misplaced perception,

showers of sunlight pierce the clouds

the rain dissipates on the horizon

pools of oasis on the asphalt disappear,

and the edge of a smile emerges

adjusting the rearview mirror.