that's important

as you talked,
I saw your eyes tell me
above the words
of your triumph over fear -
love over pain,
and I drew near.

as we talked
in candlelight
and settled with green tea, and
shared our wonder at new life found,
I thought you came
near to me.

as we held one another
then parted,
I tried to kiss you
in clumsy aftershock -
crossed your line, perhaps,
and I felt you draw
away from me.

after you'd gone, and candles put out,
your voice still echoing
in this little place...
asleep on my feet,
clumsy, complete - knowing your joy in triumph
was as strong as mine -
I closed my eyes
and drew near.


13 October 1995