I saw you that morning
A twisted pile of metal on the side of the road,
Completely unrecognizable.
Didn't think much of it,
Stuff like that happens all the time here.

The day came and went
Same as always
Until I heard the news.
Fourth block, second elective
My friends, huddled around each other,
Eyes leaking ocean water
That's when I heard about you
And how you were no longer here
And they sang to the stars in need of just one chance
To tell you how much they loved you
Did you hear them crying?
Did you understand their words?

I got on the bus that afternoon
My mind numb
My eyes in shock
My heart in pain.
Did you see your best friend
Climb the bus steps
And break down in front of everyone
And beg every god he knew for a chance to warn you?

I never knew you well enough to cry
You were just another face in a world I occasionally ignored
But I see how hard it is for everyone else
The ones who loved you
The ones who cared
And I can't help but wonder
Do you ever speak to them?
Did you help ease their pain?

Because I see how they are without you
They act brave
They smile like everyone else
But I see the hurt behind the grinning teeth
I breathe the same air they do
And the air tastes like that day
Do you taste it too?
I know they do.