pictures of houses

i wrote this today, thinking about a friend of mine. i don't know what else to say.

ALSO THIS

not simply above,
behind,
or beside.

but
inside.

inside.

those permissions that we cannot find a way
to grant to ourselves.
the permissions that we would grant to others
in a heartbeat.

ordained or not
i am empowered to grant
(with all my love)
you permission to feel...
everything.

i would never sign a letter to you,
“nothing but happiness”
for you i want more.

even this.
all of this.

you are a man
who lays the melody
whose presence is a present.

and now i know,
that when i am entangled in those rhythms,
when you turn to face me,
that i also am given:
your grief,
your reverence,
your longing,
your unique and untouchable love - for him.

he is:
not simply above,
behind,
or beside.

but
inside.

inside.