From the Corner of the Oval

by Beck Dorey-Stein

We will be better, to each other, for them.

When first graders are shot to death, when families are blasted apart by a bomb, prayer alone will not prevent the next tragedy—but what will?

Despite all the horrible news in the world, there are still moments of light.

I can only wonder at the speed of time passing, at the happenstance that dictates the direction of our lives.

The ocean always wins, because the ocean never cares. But you, my dear, can drown in six inches of anything.

I know you’re supposed to leave the dance before the lights come on, but there’s no way I am skipping out now. The lights are going to come on all too soon, long before I’m ready.

Ballets are full of bloody slippers.

It isn’t love if he makes you hate yourself.

The world is what you make of it.

I’m happy to be looking up, remembering why I’m here.