By Jim Hutchins james_p.hutchins@virgin.net
Date: 23 April 2000

Julie

Moving through my life like an ancient spirit
I see her movements in people in the crowd
I notice
her hair
and her clothes
among the colours all around me

As if I needed reminded that she is with me constantly
Maybe I do

Is she good for me?
Is she bad for me?

Yes

She is a woman

I witness all her guises changing in front of me

Is there a lesson to be learned?

Yes

For us both.



Some people
Are visited by Gods in the shape of Man.
I am visited
By a woman in the guise of God.

Just like in the beginning
I am offered the apple.

I play my part,
Eat the fruit, knowing that
the only correct consequence
is to be banished from The Garden.

But, the woman will be with me.
She will test me,
              hurt me,
              even break me.

But she will love me
And I will love her
Forever


Many lives later.

Suddenly, I am aware of her again.

Even when she makes herself known,
I know that this isn’t the only time
She is present.

When I leave her company
I recognise her
Sweeping through every crowd.

Her face is the only one in focus
and,
although I am held by her eyes,
I know her lips are moving,

saying,

I love you

And I will love you

Forever.