Reprieve

 Forgive yourself for having done absolutely nothing,

your mind is a battlefield, 

raging a circadian war with itself,

prolonging sleep to no reprieve, 

either way you have lost, overwhelmed

but you stood your ground, 

took a breath even when the air turned to water, 

a warrior embellished in lessons and rubies,

worthy of every commendation,

you are here, seasoned scars and all,

allow yourself this consolation,

nevermind the impending deadlines and retreating dreams,

as long as it takes for this storm to cede,

for today, you just have to breathe.

                                                 --Ananya Murali