hand in hand we run
full speed toward the rolling hills that are
dawn dabbles its quiet light on the horizon
lightening the path
unraveling mysteries
only to be understood as the sun stands its noontime post.
your hand tightens as the world
blooms before us and extends her hand in invitation.
nature's warmth enlivens your face --
your face enlivens mine
your beauty is unscathed
by the frustrated expectations of human life,
protected by the innocence of youth,
no longer; we continue in our naivety --
dancing, singing, laughing, loving --
we run on through the hills and valleys
the mountain's base greets us with wanton anticipation
jagged rocks and harrowing paths
hand in hand our gate slows, we tighten our grip
in perfect synchronicity
but continue
committed not knowing
the dangers the mountain has scattered amongst
the joys it promises. acme ahead we climb,
at times, i carry you, you carry me until room is found
to walk side by side once more.
thorns and snares begin
to nip at our commitment
to eat at our patience
the mountain hides the face of the sun
hands loosen. we loose grip.
we go about on our own, side by side, but alone.
we press on to the top of the mountain; the path
narrows its invitation. one at a time,
we continue, committed not knowing suddenly
I’d find you in my arms again, carrying you,
being carried by your love.
the sun embraces us again with buttery afternoon
light, glowing; animating new shadows on
your changing face.
the view is impressive, not so much for what's below
but who's beside me. roughened by the journey,
you look more beautiful than ever.
tired and beautiful.
our time at the top is short lived; the sun begins to set,
and we still have to make it home. slowly we begin
your face more tired and more beautiful rests on my shoulder
you reminisce of past journeys
traveling by landscapes of an earlier journey
stories wind amongst themselves
confusing particulars
you have trouble remembering my name.
eyes full of night you begin to nod; i keep you awake
because the sun has lost it's warmth
and my strength for the journey is starting to fade with you
with home in sight the sun slips beyond the trees
and in the moonlight i see your beautiful face
tired and unwillingly at rest.
having fought sleep but slumbered nonetheless
unable to hold on;
i hold on to you
cold
crossing the threshold i lay your tired body down
putting mine next to yours, my hand in your hand
promising to seek you in my dreams, knowing the sun
will never be quite as warm
nor will this house ever again be a home.
yes, in my dreams i will seek you
i will sojourn as a find you, knowing
one day I will find myself home again, finally,
in the warmth of the morning sun
yes, together, hand in hand
we'll run
