Conch Poem by Paul Velat

Carrying my own home
has become a burden to
a life I’ve wanted to lead.
I’ve dreamt of many occupations and textures that
exist on the dry land, yet they seem out of my reach.
The creeping beings must take cover,
its why most are concealed.
I’ve had enough of that.
I’ve decided to change the manner
in which I do business.
I’ve decided that in order to change,
I must run fast.
I must be a gazelle without the fear of becoming caught.
Just running to feel the blood
flow through my system.
A complex series of pulleys and
gears meshing with juices and sparks.
I become rushing water and then
evaporate into thin air, breathable by most.
Its only then that I’ve traveled fast.
I shed my house and move closer to
the sun. Perhaps if I loved more,
or differently then I would be blessed with two feet
and could run.
But till then I am just a mollusk
doomed to to pick up my home
Again and forage the ocean floor,
for the bits of leftovers others discard.