That feeling...

We all know that feeling
when rushing, unthinking
across the landing, the bedroom, up the stairs
feet unguarded
against unseen objects, protruding corners,
veiled danger concealed - suddenly revealed

to your vulnerable... delicate... little toe.

The pain leaves you reeling
incapable of speech
the desire to screech
unspeakable words, repeatedly.

You curse yourself for the careless abandonment of protective layers:
Shoes, slippers, comfy misshapen Uggs
full to the brim with familiar fluff
to cosset your foot, cushion the blow.
Even your highest heels which pinch and rub
would have provided protection,
limited the pain
coursing through you.

That’s how I felt when I bumped into love,
recklessly unprepared, naive, unguarded
and stubbed my heart.