etched in stone in my memory's vaults
frozen, framed in my soul's safe keep
precious promise devoid of faults
he is calling I'm falling asleep
here is a world wherein I can choose
letting soul and spirit wander at will
choices not based on what I may lose
here lies the hope that never stays still
a wave and a glance, connecting eyes
leaning back, legs rest on table
shadow of past failures in tries
turning life to a tearful sad fable
open your eyes, intensely listen
every footstep and every breath
mounting mistakes of every mission
slowly dancing a spiritual death
if I could gaze on the heavens tonight
and wish to grow wings, and pray it be true
to dive off the ridge of resignation, take flight
and land in the loving embrace of you.
This poem also appears in the collection, Home of the Ducks.
© 1998 Matt Russell.