I once saw a lighting bug, 

I caught it in my hand.

The air was warm and thick and muggy,

and I treasured my tiny lampstand.

Frail and small, antennae twitching 

that bug and I met seven years ago, and yet; 

the memory lives so clear and bright that I feel my mind is glitching. 

Certainly there are memories our brains will never forget, 

but as time marches on so relentlessly I feel them

s

 l 

  i

   p

     p

      i

       n 

         g 

out of reach, out of touch, out of control. 

What will I become? 

How will my life unroll? 

I feel the days race quickly past, 

like cinema trapped between double white panes of glass. 

I scramble to control my destiny, but when it is broadcast

I discover I am no director, and I have no choice but to hold fast. 

He determines my eternity, 

I am held in his right hand. 

Although driving is not is not my strong suit he pilots with certainty. 

My life will never be purposeless, no moment wasted or unplanned. 

So I think back to the lightning bug, 

tiny, frail, and small. 

I realize I am just like him; small and frail, yet snug

held by a great God who is above it all. 

So although my memory will fade and my bones will slowly rot,

I will rest in the knowledge that God controls the plot. 

Biography: My name is Lydia Ericson, and I am excited to be partnering with The Aims Review to showcase my passion for poetry and encourage others towards creative expression. I originally discovered The Aims Review through one of my professors and submitted a piece for one of my finals. As a newly graduated student pursuing journalism at UNC, I am honored to have my writing represented in such an impactful paper that encourages artists to refine their skills and create within a supportive community.