Harmony

When we walk together you always pull me along,
like we should trot or run, be going somewhere.
But when I resist, you give up easily
and for awhile we find a relaxed rhythm, two parts of one thing.
I am uplifted then.

But in a moment we fall out of step and you pull again
as some lithe thing appears from out of nowhere.
Then your attention is for her with the long legs
lunging ahead of her lean body, ready for flight
as though she knows you are about to give chase;
Your eyes on your mark.

We lurch then like a faulty machine, a car out of gas.
You pull away, forgetting or not caring that we are attached;
and I clench my teeth as the pain spikes through my wrist.
But remembering who’s who here, I pull you back
While again you relent.

And you look at me with that sorrowful innocence
that implores me to forgive you one more transgression;
reminding me that you never claimed you were perfect
nor did I, in the beginning expect that you were.
Being with you was enough.

We are together again with the autumn wind at our backs
propelling us forward to a common destiny; we are simply We.
I feel you against my thigh as you step slightly ahead;
You guide me while allowing me still to take the lead.
It is perfect,
this dawn
this dog
with me.

When Parting, Go Softly

I drove by Laura's house tonight
To see what I would feel
To see what it would look like
And if it was still real

I drove by Laura's house tonight
Though I know she isn't there
I thought I'd catch a glimpse of her
And let her know I care

I drove by Laura's house tonight
The Christmas lights were on
Snow had fallen on her doorstep
And covered all the ground

I drove by Laura's house tonight
To remember all she'd done
To look her in the face and know
Some things can't be outrun

I drove by Laura's house tonight
Macabre as it seemed
I thought I heard her telling me
of all the things she'd dreamed

I drove by Laura's house tonight
The lights were on within
I slowed a moment in the dark
And like a peeper I peeped in

I drove by Laura's house tonight
I saw children with a book
Children just like Laura's
Only with a different look

I drove by Laura's house tonight
This time to say goodbye
"Remember me when this you see"
She whispered one last time