When partners mishandle their words

explode in opposition
nausea
chest pain
and shortness of breath
escort crestfallen eyes
follow the shuffle of feet
elsewhere

How can the expression of feelings
a perspective conveyed to one human
activate another human to the point of rupture?

When partners mishandle their words
explode in opposition
how can we eliminate the bluster
the crimson fury of control?

To visualize water
its gentle motion
can alter anger
to float
can erase the rage
See how it holds the body
accommodates its entirety
no matter the depth or weight?
It partners without force or wave
practices buoyancy in reflection
and transforms the rein of silence
into reciprocation—
through the fluidity
of compassion