We met when I was 12

Over Oreos with milk–

Pains alloyed with

Kind soothing words

And a kiss.

Our worlds were chaos.

I knew she loved me

With all her heart.

 

There were strays in her world—

Not lost but needing something.

Our front door called to strays.

It radiated a secret message:

If you need love and acceptance,

Come here, and we will be friends.

Generous heart.

 

Can an adventurer love being in bed?

Russia? Poetry? East Boulder Lake?

Breakfast in bed?  Europe? Mysteries?

Costa Rica? Novels? Shasta?  History?

St. Petersburg?  Science?  Ecuador?

More poetry? Boston?  Historical fiction?

Point Reyes?  Novels?

I guess a bed and adventure are very compatible.

 

Can strong be gentle?  My Zena is strong—

Strong enough to anchor us with her rope,

Holds us through our storms:

Depression/despair/alcohol/drugs/

Dislike/cults/and anger.

The rope has pulled and twisted and

Even thrashed at times.

But it has held us.

Strong can have a gentle heart.

 

Eyes twinkle and smile so sweet.

Build a room just for me.

Princess clothes and special treats.

How special am I.

Crystal goblets, grandma’s silver,

What do you want for your birthday dinner?

Crepes for breakfast, snickerdoodles.

Her eyes really do twinkle.

 

James LaRoy

October 2, 2010