I imagine an unfurling parachute, slim and struggling to catch its breath

The horizon growing ever flatter and less distinct as the gap shrinks

Heartbeat by galloping heartbeat, I've beaten them all - every vice and pleasure

Until now, as the crystal lake approaches, I realize the world had been holding up the mirror to me - not the inverse,

As we would like to be certain.

As we would like to be remembered.

When I take a really hard look at what I don't like about myself, instead of flinching from the obvious

Let it draw inexorably near, as does this sumptuous Terra Firma

Let it caress me in it's bewildering dichotomy

As the lesson is engaged with and learned

For your entertainment