Wednesday, November 30, 2016

The Woman at the Bar


                        for AG


The woman at the bar has warm brown eyes.
   I stare at them with my two ancient blues.
Hers look for someone who can sympathize;
   Mine see the caution and the hidden bruise.
Mine say: “It’s safe;” and that is why she leans
   Into me for a hug that I return—
That lets her shatter into smithereens
   With clutching fingers, sobs, and tears that burn.
And we’ll leave separately and never meet
   Again, because this momentary sharing
Is not about some passion and its heat
   But love’s warm reassuring touch of caring.
      And though my ego wants more and feels miffed,
      It’s not about me—it’s about my gift.



Copyright 2016 Matthew J Wells

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