How much water has to run down my face And into the drain Before I feel strong enough To dry off? Be engaged? The answer will change each time, but I swear I never get any cleaner or more prepared I know I can't So ask me why my attempt For respite takes precedence over yours, or worse Someone's thirst I will tell you I'm doing exactly what I was taught and will always do Laid into the bath and for so long a stillness crept through The porcelain cold on my skin, water dulling sense of motion In other things I would suspend I will suspend Dry off I cannot just dry off if I want to