For Today, A Lot Like Tomorrow

For Today, A Lot Like Tomorrow

(C. Luepkes, 2014)

3 blocks away

I can hear the brakes of the train

Dragging, heaving, and pulling into the station

Like excited dogs tugging back on their leash

On the first warm day of spring

For today, a lot like tomorrow

I am those brakes

A rambling rhythm with the A.M. and the P.M.

To and from

My body feels like it is scaffolding

Holding up that big, generous, blue sky

It is my private shadow

For today, a lot like tomorrow

My body fumbles through the morning like a broken fender

It is always there

Tuned up and turned on

I am wishing for a body double

I would dress her in yellow

She would laugh more often

For today, a lot like tomorrow

I hold out hope for a decent night’s sleep

Dreaming of shorelines and whistling

But again, I am…