I opened my mouth to say all that I had planned
For the lasting hours and long days beforehand
Talking points— all memorized— inward and outward
Silence— chirp— chirp— crickets were all that could be heard

I unlocked my lips— tripped on my tongue— sputtered— choked
A gag order must have haphazardly invoked
I very much wanted to say each of the words
But they abandoned me— flew away with the birds

Added discomfort— I got way too freaking hot
My throat twisted itself in an improved clinch knot
Why is it that every time I try to talk
The words all jump...