On the highway traffics whirl, noises clutter, vapors smother
Minutes scrape through too-narrow margins with bloody edges
Anxious white knuckles grip steering wheels and weighted
Feet press on pedals bearing towards vital destinations
On the horizon, a row of green lights promises indefinite motion
Drivers zoom on convinced that shaving seconds will save them
Eyes narrow as the row turns gold: sudden dismaying autumnal shift
Some cars sail on through, and within hearts leap in victory
Victimized by refusal to halt for the red sign of sanctuary offering
To brake.
Pause.
Recuperate.
Back at the red stoplight,
Lungs balloon with breath
Hands twine together across the emergency break
Lips caress in quick stolen kisses
Laughter boils out windows
Music emanates and fellow stuck-for-the-moments
Dance to the beat in their seats