The Limits of Sensation

A scalding water droplet

splashes on the back of my hand.

I smile.

The sensation from an instant

can last a while.

Long after the cells die,

their replacements

Will be replaced soon enough,

much like a child.

The chai rooibos tea bag is

surrounded by the same water droplets,

but they hold firm together,

maintaining a healthy warmth.

Good for them.

I don’t wish for that tea bag

to be replaced

by my hand.

Sensations have their limits.

Michael Carney