circle the circle
the red mound forming
trapped beneath
the surface
composition of dirt and oil
an enemy to the
flawless complexion
daily scrubs
didn’t help
block these intruders
they burrowed in deep
beneath the surface
trapping themselves
making their home
while the skin reacts
turns red, white and black
using natural defenses
are no match
squeeze, pinch, pop
more, again, press
we must be free
squeeze, again, pop
more, again, press
without a choice
it was forced to move
from its unwelcome
presence

-Jennie Nawrocki