Death Salience

Driving along the road I smell 
A burning smell 
So foul

Traffic backs up
I curse the traffic gods
I think about a new job
A new life
In a new place
With no traffic

Suffering blooms

Then I see 
The cause of the traffic: 
A mangled sports car
Completely discombobulated

Is the driver alive?
I wouldn't be surprised if not

Suddenly, the bit of water
On my windshield
Seems beautiful

Abraham Maslow said
That having his heart attack
Made him 
More alive

Later on 
During my commute
I smell a burning smell 
Again

But this time, it's just 
Run of the mill air pollution
Do I curse it
Or do I say 
Thank you Lord?