Walking down the streets of Ashkelon,

We go inside the store

Looking to buy something new for mom.

Browsing around the shelves

My eyes lay upon your shiny figure.

I ask to try your fit

And instantly become attached.

The roundness of your white gold swaddles my fourth finger

Like a newborn baby in a blanket.

Back home

I wear your band everyday.

You’re routine.

Now I see crowds of people

Standing close together

In the hallway

Screaming,

Shouting,

Pushing.

My heart races,

My head spins,

My eyes begin to blur.

Beads of sweat

And fear form

As I imagine the worst

And begin to curl up.

I turn your belt,

Feeling the warm gold

Encompass the circumference of my phalange,

Telling me I’m okay,

You’re fine,

Just breathe.

Feeling your creases beneath my index finger,

I fantasize the moment we met.

You’re under those bright lights now,

Making you gleem like the sun,

And I feel relief.

A knot on top

With grooves as deep as the sea,

I am reminded of your safety

And the history of all that you hold.

Forever a conventional custom.

Without you,

I feel bare.

Without you,

I feel stripped.

Without you,

I feel empty.