I opened the door

I had shut

A long time ago

They all came tumbling down

falling all over each other

clambering

Their hands, fingertips, palms

 Reaching

Their squashed bodies shuffling, squeezing,

lurching

They’ve been in there for too long

I wanted them to stay

They were safe there

I too felt secure with them there

I stood, motionless on the doorstep

Watching them flood towards me

Still, awaiting the explosion

I blocked my ears in anticipation,

 And closed my eyes

Almost knocked over in their frenzied approach

I stumbled, moved aside and found my footing

They all rushed out, unfaltering

The smallest of them squeaking;

“wanted to get some air”

I should have opened the door

I had shut

A long time ago

Jackie Mondi