a pause that isn't a pause

a pause that isn’t a pause

a man throws
five coins into
the wishing well.

there is little grace,
each throw
an agitated arc.

in silence,
he makes five quick wishes,
each broken with a sigh.
one foot, tapping out a
time of impatience.

i hope each wish
blooms, in the garden
that is his unknown life.

he looks like
he needs them.