it's been getting harder to breathe lately

then again
I don't think it ever wasn't

but now
it is so much more strenuous

as if I have to remind my body
to inhale and exhale

as if I need to gasp for air because it just won't go down to my lungs

as if my body doesn't want me to breathe anymore
and I have to admit

it is a suitable punishment.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------