We reckon, in heartbeats, the time it takes
paper to parachute-float through the drag.
The lull between bullets.
Nimble through pencil-case shrapnel, obstacle run
of flesh and metal. Dumb, sudden experts
at holding our breath.
Later, they’ll discover an underachieving bomb, erect
a metal detector, monument. We’ll try to ignore
invisible outlines on library carpet. And how
our sandwiches taste different.
Compassion Camp 