“There are just certain kids for whom you bring all your hope.” – Michelle Kuo

She learned hollowed bones,
the pulse of straggling creek,
became water that moved
without form.
Those were some days,
hope tied to effort
with its inevitable exhaustion.

Carry them on the river
her blood sang.
Be the current swift.
Bring everything with them,
the sediment, the fishes, the filth,
the reeds. Bring yourself
to be emptied.