Time Out

Time out: what is it really, sometimes I wonder!

Is it a way to bring people closer or render them asunder.

In sports, I understand, it is used to strategize the team approach

In relationships though, does it lead to some resolution or to much reproach?

With whom does one need a time out, what do you think?

Who gave this idea anyway, you, a friend or the shrink?

We are partners for God's sake, in a long lasting relation.

We are not seated for a business deal on a table of negotiation.

Does the heart get really fonder in the absence of communication?

Or it builds a thicker wall and shores up mutual recrimination?

How does one solve a situation without talking?

That silence can solve all issues in a partnership is shocking!

Maybe time out can prevent a bit of heartbreak

By avoiding saying things that can not be taken back.

Though, how long can we save the peace through the time out

Till the next "time out" are you sure that we won't rant and shout

Surely talking beats silence in arriving at resolution

But if we are afraid of confrontation, we may need to revisit this relation!

When physical distance exist, another distance build in silence while we enjoy "time out"

a distance of silence and unspoken anguish that doesn't bear thinking about

How would this distance be covered once the time has passed on

whenever another disagreement happens, there is always a "time out" option to fall back upon

It's a  convenient mechanism to avoid

Airing of issues that the partnership suffers from,

But allows for more personal time to brood 

And metamorphosize the small issues into a giant bomb!

Are you this comfortable in taking time out with the others

with your kids, friends, siblings, fathers or mothers?

Am I the chosen one for the especial "time out" treatment

the only one who will take this and will not lament - 

At not being allowed to speak out about what bothers me 

and maybe also listen to your side of the story

So that the issue can be finally put to bed 

With no more need to weep, shout, irritate or goad

Rather than the issue remaining dormant 

And waiting for a just a little push to tip the whole load

Can this "time out" not be used in a more fun and memorable way

Where it actually means taking time out from a "business as usual day"!

Image courtesy: https://depositphotos.com/stock-photos/timeout.html