Water pours out in a steady stream
from the showerhead above.
As you enter, it stings you
and you flinch back,
for the water is too warm.

However, you slowly get adjusted
to its energy and begin to find enjoyment,
ultimately taking it for granted,
thinking it will stay this way forever.
It stays like this for some time.

Then, the temperature declines
the slightest bit. You barely notice it
but you know it happened
and you know what it means.
You turn the faucet up to stay warm.

The water keeps going lukewarm.
With a start, you realize the faucet
cannot go any further.
The temperature continues to drop
and you gradually feel the warmth leaving.

The water is still pleasant, but you know
it will soon become cold
and you feel powerless to stop it.
You know it’s not going to get warmer,
so do you prolong the inevitable,

or leave on your own terms?