the difference between a yawn and a smile

the difference between a yawn and a smile

the small muscles

near the cheekbone

the jaw in its depth

not width

near the cheekbone

there is a yes

not width

a knowing

there is a yes

you have to reach for it

a knowing

stretching your baby face

you have to reach for it

the love you need

stretching your baby face

and grown heart

the love you need

the jaw in its depth

this growing heart

the smallest muscle

(This is dedicated to everyone who is relearning their face after days of not seeing or smiling at strangers in passing. This is dedicated to us, the ones relearning movement in smaller spaces. This is for us, navigating the difference between restlessness and rest. And of course this is dedicated to three of my gorgeous godmothers, three of the sisters my mother chose. Aunt Cecilia, Aunt Rashmi and Auntie Jenny. Divine. And dreamy.)