The Violence Of The Day

I cannot fix
what I did not break--
but I tried to neutralize it,
your anger
emotions
when I could.

I felt the pressure
today
(building)
Everyone else did, too.

Funny
how time slows
just before the worst--
is it so we can have a few more seconds
to escape
or so the pain is dulled?

We knew today was different
and somehow
it was coming
(this time)
for real--

No more regersals.
Could I have steered things differently
years ago
in the classroom
where I taught you?

Probably not.

That's the sad part--
seeing it coming
and not one could help you
except yourself
if you had just tried.

Do we have to worry
about tomorrow
or some other tomorrow
that you'll come back for us
and try to finish
what was interrupted today?

I should have tried harder
but I thought it was enough
when I saw your smile
when I told you
that we take no disease
and hurt with us
when we die
because those aren't allowed
in heaven.

Maybe that seed will still grow
and this, too
shall pass.