Heather Pound

those words

once out

can never

be sucked

back in.

you may say

they weren’t

meant, weren’t

intended, but

the ear that

absorbed will

still wonder,

still ponder

on nights

when sleep

retreats.

guard your

mouth more

than your gold

for its residue

lingers.

—our stories are made of words, so be careful to use yours well.