Put Me Out

in a box of unlit cigarettes,

the one simmering down to ash 

will seemingly be the smallest. 

some will attempt to dull your light 

as they shove and push you into darkness;

Because while lying down next to the comfortable 

makes you feel the tallest;

if you stand the same height, you won't see past 

the experiences of your 

short perspective. 

it takes turning into ash 

to be freed from the box. 

To be carried by the wind of the world

 you can’t put me out.

Emma Shina — November 1st, 2023