Zebra Seeking Spoons

The sun climbs high, the air feels raw,

a zebra trembles, each step a flaw.

Her legs ache deep, her breath runs thin,

the world feels heavy beneath her skin.

Beside her stands a steady friend,

a fellow zebra who will not bend.

He lowers his head, his shoulder near,

saying softly, I’m right here.

He shields the glare, he slows the pace,

he carries the silence with quiet grace.

When pain makes the hours drag and blur,

he lends his strength, he leans into her.

No cure, no magic to sweep it away,

but comfort enough to survive the day.

For sometimes healing is not to mend,

but simply to walk with a steadfast friend.