An Open Flame

I hover my hand over an open flame, 

The fire licks at the top of my finger tips

I steady my hand and let my palms burn,
    just for a little bit.

I play with the light,

moving my hand around the heat.

I am glowing orange red. 

Paper thin skin. 

One inch closer and I might ignite. 

Destruction in an instance,

but I stay a safe distance.

One hand, above the flame,

One hand, safe, in the dark. 


                                                                                                                                                                         - Angela C. Quincey