take the reins

I can feel the bit between my teeth
hard, cool steel rides my gums, pulling and yanking me,
until I chomp down on it.
It grinds me - and I feel harnessed and haltered
like something reigns me in
preventing me from running wild and free.

I wake each morning, nodding my head to the multiple parts of me
the one who luxuriates in the sunshine,
waiting for the world to take care of her.
And the one who leaps out of bed and smiles at the sounds
of the world creaking, groaning, and heralding the new day.

I think my dual personality is especially strong

when my authentic assessments of life are fatigued.
Unable to purposefully guide my passions in the direction of my choosing,

I leave myself open to whimsy and delight.

And then I flounder

and I'm not quite sure where this life will take me.

I'm both excited and daunted by what will transpire next.

In the meantime, you can feel the froth of exertion
forming on my lips. As I carry my bit, toss my head
and wonder where this will lead me.

- lml