Emotions, Plastic-Wrapped
A free verse poem
Food comes wrapped in plastic
Forks and straws as well
Plastic wrapped in plastic
All that we consume
Before the tongue touches it
Birthed from a plastic skin
Everything delivered home
Arrives in a protective bubble
Air wrapped in plastic
A sanitary hug
Safe from concussion
To keep it from breaking
Could I wrap my baby’s heart in plastic
Protect her trust from being soiled
Keep her feelings bouncing
On a sea of tiny plastic bubbles
Iridescent
And springy like her curls
Could I bubble wrap my own hurt
Pack up the damaged goods
Years later, post-warranty
Box up the aching scars
Return to sender
Free shipping
Thank you for reading this poem! Check out another poem about innocence, “Recounting” and a personal essay, “The Death of Chronic Pain.”
Wishing you happiness and health!
