HOT IN COLD:

Everybody keeps telling me it’s cold, but I’m warm, hot.
Boiling from the inside out, open all the windows!
I’ve been running standing still. Tried problem solving
other people’s problems (got to laugh) – didn’t work.
Tried scattering cushions for when they fall – couldn’t
keep up. Tried ‘understanding’ – that works, then it’s
not enough. Tried researching the cause & the solution –
that keeps me off the streets. Tried making suggestions –
that goes down like a brick. Tried ‘love’ & that’s
about the best. Add to that ‘keeping the mouth shut when
I’m tired & feeling hard done by’ & we’re heading in the
right direction. Strap on ‘Patience’, ‘Tolerance’
& ‘Empathy & you’ve got a winner. Dancing between all these,
ignoring a head that whispers, “what about me?”
I’m burning up. I got a radiator inside, fuelled on
keeping quiet. A thermostat that never kicks in, temperature
rising. Open all the windows, set me out in the rain.
Dress me in t-shirt & skiddies. I’m firing on all cylinders
& some I never knew I had. Mining reserves of energy beyond
my allotted stash. I dare not slow down or I’ll burn & crash.
When the time comes, give me 24 hours & plenty of road.
I’ll need parachute breaks to slow this head. A bottomless
kettle & a fat mug of tea. Don’t call me when I’m out on the
road. I’ll be too far gone to reach out & help –
addicted to the kick-drum.

(K)