The Bridge

Elizabeth Mateer

I begin to cross the bridge
as the cathedral bells toll seven times.
Walking up the wooden steps
as the sun is setting, casting an orange haze
over the canal, amplified by the mist
and my one glass of champagne.

Time is slowed
to a speed I’ve only known
once before. The time I thought I was going to die.

I notice exactly how many inches I raise my foot,
in brown boots, over wooden steps.
I place each with a solid thump.
With each sound of rubber hitting wood,
one step closer to transformation.

Acutely aware
of the absolute urgency
to absorb
what is now.  

Because knowing in my future,
and introduction in the past.
I tremble with unknown
and every step
as I near the end of the bridge, gravity
pulls me down, and closer.

Acutely aware
that I will not be the same
once I step foot
on the other side.

---

Elizabeth Mateer
Elizabeth Mateer is the author of the poetry collection Searching for Home, has had her poetry featured in Fractured Light and Dancing on Moonbeams anthologies, and Beyond Words Literary Magazine. Additionally, she is an editor and Italian translator for The Poetry Lighthouse. Elizabeth holds a BA in Creative Writing and is completing her PhD in Clinical Psychology.
Instagram: @searchingforhomepoet