A January walk around the neighborhood, Mitte, Berlin.
Warm-Up Writing
Warm-up writing,
because it’s cold out.
Warm-up writing,
because my extremities no longer receive blood flow, what was a short-lived gift from my morning’s shower.
Warm-up writing,
because sweat no longer glides down my chest from that long-held forearm plank.
Warm-up writing,
because how many hot cups of tea can my fingers wrap around in a day?
I am stiff, slow-moving, my heart is cautious still. I need to warm up.
Warm-up writing,
because this smattering of words won’t be my last.
Warm-up writing,
because I’m not sure enough to exclaim that “I’m a writer!” yet.
Warm-up writing,
because maybe if my follow-through is good enough,
this writing will lead to organizing,
but I can’t yet bet on that.
Warm-up writing,
can we write ourselves out of atmospheric warming?
Warm-up writing -
anyone can do it!
Heart pumping, thoughts flowing, heat building, ready for more, writing some more.
Warm-up writing,
because writing might become my saving grace.
Warm-up writing.
I anticipate a long haul, and I need to warm up.
- Anjal Chande