By Rhetoric
Date: 2002 Dec 19
Comment on this Work
[[2002.12.19.15.53.32120]]

re-run

I am looking back through all the moments we spent
together, realizing that I missed opportunities.
Opportunities to kiss, touch, and taste.
Such contact might complete the circle from friend to lover.
Each time we shared tea or a collective sadness,
I could have pleased you. I could have been the warm glow
that flushed your cheeks, seared your lips.
But, I was too timid, too engaged to think
I was anything, to you, but a pupil.

If that is the case, show me the text to which I follow;
be it written on your skin or etched in your mind.
I am apt to take direction (lower, slower, right there).
Just this second I am wondering if you would take me in
and let me see, the magic that is your strength.
I am mouthing, though you are looking away,
"I can smell you: sweet cinnamon and faint hints of citrus".
I fear I pay too close attention to your skin.
It ruins my day to not make you sing, flutter your beats.

I am contented to posture myself with didactic motives.
I am for now. Though I carry my secret proud
and not so well-hidden as one would think.