times of TRAGEDY inevitably bring one of two things: the best, or the worst in you. it’s in the midst of chaos, black & white morals dissolve into colors; & hers? god, how they burn feverishly, BLAZING. red-hot, spirit-scorching flames theaten to engulf her whole, that shield of ( f i r e ) meant not for war but protection, those red roses that bloom inside cracked rib cages have grown wild, untamed; thorns now dig into ivory flesh, it stings but you won’t hear her cries. so search beyond these GATES & dig through the vines, put your bruised knuckles & calloused fingers to work & you’ll find--- the light, it radiates from her core bright as a beacon. “ i wish there was MORE i could do to help. ” lithe fingers squeeze her bandaged wrist, dark hues corrupting alabaster complexion; COMPASSION’S battle wound. honeyed gaze clouded with festering worry, digits search for comfort in the familiarity of ebony fur & purring of her faithful companion.