When Trains Collide

WHEN TRAINS COLLIDE IN FINLAND
By Reid Baer

Somewhere between the ocean and the land
late one night scurrying around the sand
I searched for anything that would burn
driftwood
cardboard
pick up sticks.
I scavenged for hours
for something to light
but there was nothing dry …
but I was strong, willful, and resourceful
so I lit my stage
of life
and before my own damned bonfire
I danced and danced like
there was no tomorrow
and risked all the previous lies
from yesterday – oh my - did I say
I hopped a coastal freight train once?
Oh, that was a beautiful rail ride into San Manteo
when I was so wet behind the years
so young
so reckless
so very high -
oh yeah, I took that big dive!
I laid it all out like I could fly!
Hell, I didn’t care
if I made it out alive
but between you and me
my sweetheart wife
that was then and this is now
and I’m older
and maybe a little wise …
today I pray with all my heart
at least my fragile mind survives.