Ping Pong

The first time
I sailed over the net
feeling exhilarated, free
The next time around,
I started to notice the sting
when the paddle hit
and my soul flung forth
across the web
--the stretching barrier--
to the other side
By the third time
I felt dizzy, confused
wondering why
I just couldn't stay
on your side
You kept flinging me
forcefully forward
away from you
intentionally aiming
with premeditated precision
but partial perception
Finally determined
to eliminate me permanently
higher than the divide
with immense strength
and an unconquerable will,
You hit me directly
in the center of my heart
Stumbling backwards
unable to control my body
my vision forever impaired
I swayed back and forth
like a broken pendulum
or a stunned ping pong ball
and fell down

Rolling off the table
spining and spiraling
in mid-air twirling around,
Unable to gasp
or make a sound
I landed upon the ground
and to this day
I remain hidden safely
where I never will be found