Golden Gate Jumpers

thick fog rolls in waves
on the golden gate
I was checking my watch
with 7 minutes in my shift
when I spot
a black skirt on the rail
straddling the bar
like it’s a quarter a ride
she’s scared to jump
but terrified to stay
walk to her slow
extend my hand
with a smile and say

‘ma’am how was your day?
keep your eyes on my face
I want to help you
if you’ll let me’

she’s startled,
I look forward
wrap my arms
‘round her legs
pull her down
to the sidewalk
we’re both heaving
for air and I say

‘ma’am how was your day?
keep your eyes on my face
I want to help you
if you’ll let me’

most folks think
they’ll hit the surface
and never, feel no pain
water pulls you under
back to the womb once again
bodies float to the shore
bloated purple and blue
if sharks
won’t get you first
crabs will have
their way with you