a small ritual
for when the world has become a little too much.
put the mirror down.
Your phone can sit this one out. So can the imagined audience.
put something on.
A record you love. A song you forgot. Something with a bassline that knows the way.
make a little room.
A kitchen will do. A bedroom will do. There is no velvet rope.
begin badly, if you must.
There is no correct shape for joy. Let your feet make their case.
leave room for someone else.
Ask a friend. Welcome a stranger. When the song ends, put on another.