By Marla McGinley 
Date: 2 September 1998

The Distance

You called today and how I hurt for you when I heard your voice
You were down and you were broken and I could not reach out to help
For you needed my touch you needed a tender hand to ease your pains
How I wish I could have been there to give it to you
I long for the days when with a simple touch I can fulfill your needs
It never seems simple anymore with you there when I’m still here
The days although they pass quickly never pass quick enough
For even when I’m counting down days one minute is too long later 
How amazing life will be when the distance no longer separates us
But you and I know better, we know there are things that will always keep us apart
But to share in your life to know and feel our love, can I say I really mind
We have a crazy life, we know the demands of distance and we deal as best we can
Yet although I’d never admit it I sometimes wish I had come along before you chose your future
Only if it meant I was able to share but a moment never having to remember you will again leave soon
But it’s selfish I know the demands on you are of up most importance and I’m proud of what you do
You have abilities most men only dream of, you are a hero in my eyes and you will be remembered
But I do want you, I want to share in all of your moments, I want to be there to smile proudly
Instead I lie on our bed, holding the phone close to my face, and I smile and light up as you share your day
Always wishing and waiting to be by your side sharing the same