By L.Penny, villians@hotmail.com
Date: 11 June 1998

Pause

Today, at work
I hated everything, dear.
Not on purpose.
I just did.

I hated my boss and
my job,
and the stupid computer,
the guys telling jokes in the hall,
the couple that kissed on the bus.
I hated the sunshine because it was too bright
my pants- too tight
my coffee burnt my mouth
and I even hated you, dear.
Not that I meant to, 
I just did.

And then I heard your voice
saying, "pause"
and I felt your hand on my forehead

and I paused.

And in that moment
I awoke as if from a bitter dream.
The sun spilled in and warmed me.
I sat up straight and my body ached less.
I understood the computer error
and the punchline.

And now, dear, tonight
I pause with you,
admire you,
memorize you,
and you, me.

We pause.

I put my hand on your forehead.
Next time you need me
I will be here.