Severance

All worry gone, all stress banished, at least for a while.
The remains of summer stretch out invitingly like a pup offering its belly for a scratch.

Each day full of simple wants fulfilled.
Each night punctuated by an absence of obligation.

A rare and fleeting freedom, unencumbered by demands.
Not since childhood have I felt such optimism.

How precious time can be.
After you've sold it cheaply for so long.