Mayflies

I think the human race

would be better off if we were mayflies.

 

if we only had a day to live

and a thousand years to reflect on the choices we made.

 

if we occupied just a small grassy knoll

and were a thousand tiny wings flapping in place.

 

if we were mayflies, we wouldn’t be beautiful.

if we were mayflies, we wouldn’t be rich.

 

if I was a mayfly, I wouldn’t wear ballet slippers.

I think I would just dance

with as much grace as my brothers and sisters.

 

even though our day would be short

I think it would mean so much more.

if we saw the sun rise and set

just one time.

 

each heartbeat

would be so significant

in a way we can only take for granted.

 

Because we are, after all, only human.

 

which is why I think the human race

would be better off if we were mayflies.

 

5-4-09