Tequila Sunset
by Elizabeth Challinor
How do you self-regulate?
Asks the therapist with such a serious face
My mind goes blank
How am I supposed to know
Isn't that why I'm here?
Then I remember
Recipes that circulate
In the hemispheres
Of our digital minds
Count to ten before responding
Protect yourself in an invisible cloak of light
Watch yourself
Mindfulness
Practice meditation
Watch
Your favourite series
Seek the doctor for medication
But I stay silent
I would have liked to have said
I switch off the button
At the back of my head
Only it got stuck
I'm sinking in the quick sand of my emotions
Well, sometimes I...
I'm not sure...
A silent smile
It's okay
Says the therapist
There are some tools...
For the moment
Allow yourself to sink...
Can she read my mind?
Into your bubbling bath
Close your eyes
And drink a cocktail
Forget margaritas, mojitos and pina coladas
Tequila sunrise
Sex on the beach
The cocktail is yours
An original flavour
For you to savour
Without commentary
Or judgement
Just accept
Don't repress or reject your feelings
For they make up
The raw ingredients of our regimented lives
