an out-of-body experience you might say
I’ve always managed to avert my gaze
but this time, no such luck
I looked up
and there it was
I was surprised at how much they take
but I guess we can make it quicker than it’s drawn
so the heart will never even know it’s gone
so much darker than when seeping from a fresh cut
more like a merlot
(not that I know my wines, or care for labels
five dollar plonk’s good enough for my table)
the procedure always awakens memories
the oversized chairs
the outstretched arms
the white rooms
the collection jars
the sting, the wait, the increased heart rate
the pressure on the vein, the cotton ball, the sticky tape
