We seek shelter, a leafy tree, 
tenement steps, even pressing closer 
to a random building
in hopes we may be spared.
                  It wasn’t supposed to be this way.
Ignoring the signs, we forget the distinction 
between lightning and thunder,
not counting the seconds between,
or caring. 
Overcast, overcome with the immediacy 
of the moment. Summer weather 
a reminder of the turmoil we live with, 
                              or clouds we live under.
A day as promising as a politician’s smile, 
just as deceiving. Unnoticed, but not 
unexpected. Forced, 
by chance, to deal with inclement emotions 
and torrential pain. Crushing humidity, 
atmospheric pressure bucking 
under its own weight. Our thoughts 
hold us hostage. 
                        Days rarely go as planned.
Night will come, as surely as our breath.
Here we are, huddled with strangers,
waiting out another storm.

© 2019 j.g. lewis