It was quick and easy. It was accidental,
but only framed that way. Peeled from its
frame, it became millions of tiny carbon copies,
fractions of the whole. Creating a
hole in the bigger picture.
Each tiny fracture now lay peaceful after
a tumultuous fall. Splaying across the ground,
tinkling and sparking in the dim sun that strove
to burn through the clouds.
Small pudgy fingers reached for the beautiful treasures.
Quickly batted away, they were scolded for unknowingly
crossing the line into mesmerizingly dangerous territory.
Larger hands soon came to remove the shiny pile
of makeshift gems. More weathered hands
that had seen this fleeting masterpiece before
took a jaded approach, not admiring the way
light reflects off of each jagged face nor feeling
the cold smooth faces surrounded by harsh edges.
Brushing the pile, callously into a dark,
opaque bag, hiding the winsome grace,
refusing to allow it light to refract.
Once it has disappeared, for the most part,
tiny slivers latched onto fingertips.