i hope my words are strange and wondrous,

like kisses that quiet all things superfluous,

so that we can all stop and

listen

if you took away my words

if all my world was swept away

would you be enough for me?

---

i drew a rose on the flat of my hand,

as a reminder of the beauty in you.

and this rose it fades and i draw it again.

and likewise, i remember you.

---

the final stretch,

a homecoming,

soon my dear soon.

your hard work will have paid off

i promise.