when i was very young
like all of us
i didn’t know how to do much
even breathe or blink.

the body did these things for me
carrying me along like a speck of foam
on its wave.

until i grew more conscious
and a bit larger
and i grabbed the oars,
directing myself.

but ah. sometimes
the seemingly submissive vessel
snatches the rudder back
and takes me elsewhere
and i follow
because the body is me,
but also beyond me
and even uncomprehending,
i must go where it goes.

SALLIE MCCANN TUPPER

Sallie McCann Tupper can be found outside in her garden or in the woods, observing neighborhood animals, organizing her whole house, or cooking delicious food. She reads and writes fervently, and finds it almost impossible to read a good book without underlining and dog-earing the best parts. She writes poems to underline and dog-ear the small and sacred moments of life. Find more of her work on Instagram — @sallie_mccanntupper.