Breathing.

Clinking and clanking, arms moving up and down to facilitate mastication.

Sitting at the marble table with legs twisted twice around

allowing only the tips of toes to touch the concrete floor.

In and out with a consciousness,

Searching outward and inward in unison.

An awareness, a lesson, learning.

Feeling the emptiness in my stomach, I take a bite.

For the first time, to love myself

Through it.

Giving myself the nourishment I deserve.

Realizing the love I wanted was my own.

Chew, swallow, and finally -

Exhale.