Deteriorating cartilage,
torn meniscus,
bruising of the femur. arthritic diagnosis,
disabling infusion
of shrapnel, peppered
by an explosion. Then, my parachute’ s
canopy partially inverted,
slamming me to
the weakened joint. Early morning clicks,
occasional popping midday,
and an aching in the evening
only endured by way of
abusive substance. And that’ s the good knee.