Memories Encased in Ice

The otherwise pure ice was stained crimson with the lines of the hockey fieldThe rink employees looked like they were having funTheir neon orange vests looking brighterAgainst the field of pale blue and white wallsMy breath, fogging up the plastic barrierThe skates felt loose on my feetThe first step

Everything was muscle memory for meMy boyfriend looked like BambiMy best friend looked no betterAs his own boyfriend clung tightly to maintain balance

There was a feeling of prideBut envy tugs my attention awayTo the center of a ringOf carefully placed traffic cones

Creatures of grace and eleganceSpinning, turning, and jumpingWith such precision and poise Like winter fairies dancing and playing

They were dressed like professionals, moved like professionalsMaking me feel inadequate, clumsy in comparisonIn my jeans and long-sleeved shirtOnly able to move forward on the now cut up ice

My friend had clapped my shoulder and told me it was fineHis boyfriend had long given up on skatingHaving lost a fight with the iceNow sat on the sidelines, sipping hot cocoa Steam billowing up from the cup

Still, the longing had remainedHazel eyes following every jump, every spin, and every turnWith unrivaled curiosity and examinationI bit my lip out of frustration

Then a warmth of an embraceA kiss from himAnd it all goes awayLike a spring sun that melts the ice