Shining brightly, high above my head, 

these street lights flicker as they float,

reminding me of the fireworks we watched 

from the bobbing bow of your boat.

Afloat, atop the salty sea, the water's surface 

wrapped its arms tightly around us.

The falling stars we wished upon that night; 

we now allow them to surround us.

Among cars - 

each one a landmark that ran 

along highways, along heartlines

 on our hands -

we were beached; 

against the tar, our sandy footprints

marked our journey back to land.

Out of reach,

balanced between borders,

we were three moths chasing after a fleeting light.

We took flight,

into the air still and hot, 

above the parking lot that was left abandoned by the night.

Now - in Carolina - 

I wear my discount rose perfume

and my open heart out on my sleeve.

And when I constellate passing cars 

as if they are shooting stars, 

I'm back in Connecticut -

and I never have to leave.

For Jayde and Danielle;
may you always follow the light.