To see the space where it used to be
is like watching a surgeon's knife slip cleanly
through whole, unbroken skin
so sharp it appeared to split of its own volition,
as if it already knew what was coming
and split into its pieces even before the blade fell.

To see what had been,
and be burdened by the knowledge of
what it was, what it could have been, what it was going to be -
it is like
staring into the deepest darkness
after being overcome by the sun
after seeing the great vastness of the world
and having its image reprinted on the burned backs of eyelids
blinding completely in its disappearance.

To see the shards on the floor
and remember how smooth and cold it felt,
like death
the ceramic slipping through the kindest,
gentlest fingers
who truly did not mean any harm
and yet, with not even time for a cry
she was shattered before anyone could
remember her name.