Dazedly we emerged from our houses,
Walking with shaky steps to gaze at the unfamiliar sun.
Did you survive the rain? We asked each other,
And most nodded, though we surreptitiously found ourselves
Checking first our own limbs and then those of our neighbors.
When we looked hesitantly into others’ eyes,
We found many awash with tears and knew
That the rain still poured in their thoughts and thus filled them to overflowing.
We surrounded these in sorrow, wanting to hold them close
But did not touch them, lest the water find its way to us.
Meanwhile in a nearby village that was also across the world,
The inhabitants were likewise appearing from their refuges,
Venturing with heavy gait outside to view the strange clouds.
Did you survive the fires? They asked each other,
And most nodded, though they too were glancing secretly
At their own bodies first then doing the same for their neighbors.
When they briefly peered into others’ faces,
They discovered many scorched with rage and knew
That the blaze still burned in their hearts and thus consumed them without remorse.
They gathered round these in fear, really wanting to flee
But instead hugging them tightly to smother their flames, thus preventing them from spreading.
Rain. Fire. When you step beyond your door, consider them when you meet another.
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