Life As A Lake Poem by Justin Mata

Sinking slowly on a boat filled with holes
The water creeps in with a terrifying chill
It submerges my feet and climbs past my ankles
Letting me know it will soon invade my lungs

The lake is still, dare I disturb it
And take my chances for the shore
The thought of my ever nearing death consumes me
Paralyzed I’m left to wait instead

Next comes the question, how did I get here
Why did it take so long to notice
That I am responsible for the holes in my boat
I am to blame for this sinking vessel

I’m scared, but with each passing minute
I become more comfortable with my surrender
My heartbeat slows and my mind starts to empty
I’m calm now and I wait patiently

The chill in my chest robs the warmth from my hands
But it doesn’t keep my body from shaking
The water creeps over my shoulders ‘til it reaches my lips
And with it comes the taste of death

Climbing down my throat it replaces my air
Try as I might my eyes fill with tears
It’s slow and painful but I’m still at peace
At last my final breath escapes me