misplaced priority and
a rushed moment
collide
leaving behind little oceans
as big as my entire heart

we are drawn to happiness.
anything else rarely results in learning
unless we aim to teach avoidance.
especially in a child.

more little oceans form.
entire seas
requiring nail upon bitten nail,
lip upon pulled lip,
and every waking moment
until I see her smiling face again
to dry them up.