I’ve never cared much for swimming

But today, in a moment, I realized

I’ve been doing nothing more

Than swimming my entire life

Through the days, in the dirt

That fills this hole I’m in

Arms paddling, feet kicking

Head just above the rising layer

As more is kicked on top of me

Spitting it out as quickly as my mouth fills

Eyes stinging from the dust collecting

Settling in the corners, under the lids

It’s a deep hole, perhaps the only thing

That’s not shallow about me

I can see the sky above, sunlight

Shines down the hole, keeps me warm

Illuminating the faces in the dirt

That keep me company, remind me to never

Bring anyone down here with me again

And there I am, silhouetted against another day

Looking down the hole, shaking my head

Kicking more, and more dirt on top of me

It’s true, I’ve never cared much for swimming

But ironically, it’s the only thing I know how to do