Today I found you were gone
I remember your determination in our voice
I have become wrapped in retreating
I want my own poetry
I want you, a smile and a hug in our brief hellos
Why have my words become trapped?
Who will remember me?
Today I found you were gone
A sweet expression in its southern whisper
I learned to be accepted and free
Tears lodged beneath my surface
I have tasted life’s banquet
Now your food has been put on my shelf
Looking and remembering but never tasted again.
