Strangers and Marshmallow Clouds.

Funny how some strangers can be so similar to you. Funny how they can create a connection that means nothing at all…and at the same time reveals your deepest secrets, frustrations and fears.

She asked me once, “Tell me about the clouds.”

Marshmallow clouds, with their sheep-like characteristics and their cotton candy swirls. What could she possibly want to know about the clouds? What could I possibly say? Thinking back to this last memory up in the fluff and I figured, why not the truth?

So I said to her, “The clouds are amazing. They’d make you feel as if there isn't even a care in the world. Once we’re up there we become so entrapped in their dream-like warmth it’s hard to imagine anything better. I even begin to wonder why is it we even leave these clouds? But not all clouds are white as snow. So as I was hopping from one to the other I landed in the midst of dark clouds…the kind that rain and rain and scare little children when they sleep. And somehow I find I cannot get off. The thunder is loud and it’s hurting my head. The weather is cold and it’s freezing me to death. And I find no other desire than to hope for clear blue skies.”

Looking up I see complete recognition in her eyes, a smile across her face, as if she has known me for far longer than five minutes. I told her about rainstorms and she saw into my mind.
Oh damn these metaphors.

I read once that metaphors are dangerous. And now I see why. They become so capable of speaking truth when you try so hard to hide it away.


-Deenz