I used to think being unseen was different from being abandoned.
But my body has never been convinced.
It only knows what happened last time.
What it learned when no one came.
What it had to do to keep going.
How it held itself together to keep from breaking.
So it stays alert.
Listening.
Watching.
Holding the breath close.
Living in the space between then and now.
As the body slowly updates its learning.
Not because the danger has passed.
But because life keeps asking it to stay here.
Breathing.
Eating.
Sleeping.
Stepping into air and light.
Letting warmth touch the skin.
Allowing tears to come.
The mind notices the difference.
The body learns to stay.
