If

Frida Kahlo, The Dream, 1940

In dreams
begin
responsibilities,
then this
wakefulness
exhausts
like six days
on the road,
and sleep
settles only
the smallest
arguments
between
id & ego.

If what I am
is  product
(too)
of my own
unconsciousness,
then imagination
should weigh
down
as much as
it uplifts.

 Edward Hopper, Boy and Moon

If responsibility
wakes from
nightmare
as often as
dream,
then there is
a heroism
afterall
in this
waking fear
of failing
to protect.

If in dreams
begin
responsibilities,
then this
prayer before
bedtime
should be
as much
for memory
as forgiveness,
as forgetfulness,
as for going on.