The Rule of 3

We can survive 3 minutes without breathable air.

(Or longer when you’re near – I can’t tell –

my breathing becomes so shallow).

We can survive 3 hours in extreme heat or cold.

(My insides intensify to where my skin almost burns

and I find excuses to get away – for me, not because of you).

We can survive 3 days without drinkable water.

(Can thoughts be water? I can’t go 3 days

without thinking of you).

We can survive 3 weeks without food.

And I’ll learn to survive without you.