I
I Turn, face to the warm, bright sun
That fades into the cool night of
Goodbyes and fleeting shadows.
The firm earth supports me.

II
If you ever reach the core of me,
There’s a stillness, a quiet.
Pray, turn away, and run.
For all my cool flesh and softness
The emotions, the bruising easily,
Is simply the meat of the fruit,
Sweetness and pure bravado.
Deep inside lies a seed sown,
An old soul, tired and
Weary of the world.
A hard core.

III
You came and went this morning. I never saw you, but you left behind a warm towel and I pressed my face to it, breathing deep.