Instead I Will Stand in the Fire

I could run round the fringes of amusing people's lawns
I could laugh at dinner parties and be considered quite a catch
I could find my way to the top of a tree
To the top of THE tree and look down at the grass-skimmers
From my quite imposing height.

I could dig in the annals of world knowledge
And find treasures that would release humanity from pain and despair
I could visit stars and return before the earth was formed
And be present at the birth of the species

I could visit every person
And experience all desire

Instead I will stand in the fire.
Instead I will stand in the fire.

I could work extensively at becoming particularly convincing
I could employ my intellect on a range of worthwhile projects
I could ask you many questions
and be energised with delight at the astonishing range and exponential charm of your responses

Instead, I will stand in the fire
And then let come what may.





Sarah de Nordwall    October 28th 2010