You Never Knew Me

When I was young and carefree and

the world was at my command,

others stood beside me and

steadied my unsure hand, gave me

direction as if I was their own,

but you never knew me,

I lived my youth alone.

When I became older and needed

someone to care, to show me

things unknown, to guide me

through despair, others were

still beside me to help me be a man,

but you never knew me,

I’ll never understand.

When I fell in love and life was

so sweet and each time I stumbled

nearly facing defeat, others helped

me up and sent me on my way,

comforting me again and again

each time day was gray,

and still you never knew me,

it’s always been that way.

Now here I am grown and wise

cherishing all the others in my life

who helped me be what I am,

my friends, my neighbors and my wife,

while you suddenly write and apologize

for all the years of being away,

for memories not shared,

for dreams never made,

asking forgiveness and hoping

it’s not too late, a stranger  you

say who is changed, who sorrows

for the things I’ve been through-

my only thought is...

I never knew you.

Within You

I crawl into you, hide from un-restful

nights, darkened sunlight of days,

fearing shapes of memories

appearing in the maze

of my mind.

within you is solace, your

strength protects my soul,

I cannot be disturbed here

while demons all unfold in

darkness of sublime.

I crawl into you, safe in the warmth,

you smile and welcome me

with words of assuredly,

outside the forces scheme

to take what they may,

inside I dwell, unafraid,

in your purity.

Wines Tale 

Head breaking,

Mind sleeping on

A hot day,

Guzzling cheap

Red wine from

A plastic cup

Filled with ice.

The harsh rasp

Of the red drips

To the parched ground like

Christmas and roses

Swirling in dance.

Over and over

The ice melts

As pleasures of

The moment hold

Me ransom in

The dark of

The tall trees.