Crisis

Screeching halt
Crushing metal;
rising from
the back seat floor

Racing heart
does not settle;
hot stinging
sensation sore

Eyes wet
head burning
ruby red;
gushing, bleeding
flashing lights
undiscerning

Maternal voice
panicked, pleading;
fearful shaking
comfort seeking
"Oh my baby"  
mother shrieking
running towards me
as I fell . . .  

Unnerved
and distressed
remembering
nothing more
Although feeling altered
to the very core

Now exploring
impression left --
forever changed
reactions repressed

At ease in chaos
and commotion
confidence secured
controlled emotion

I am self-assured

Remaining calm in crisis
amid every storm's wrath;
always holding strong
until the aftermath