As if a fog has closed in around me

I become near sighted, and

Struggle to read the signs

My color has faded

My edges have become dull.

Where does it go from here,

And how can I get back to where

I can see clearly,

And my shallow breathing

Takes on new life?

Thoughts wander in and out of reality.

They search for sun and nourishment,

Yet whither in the rounded

Corners of space.

Unknowing what is causing this,

My hands fumble for the familiar

Stars, which are careening away

Out of reach.

Is this what it feels like,

Saying good-bye to youth?

The ticking of clocks

Seem louder than usual.

Diane E. Dockum

09.23.11