daybreak has crept through
open window screens to cling to shadows,
linen curtains puff gently against the
promise of springtime, and I pray to the
moment through my cool, naked skin
will this estrangement ever fold
its strong arms around this body, kiss
my aging belly and guide strands of soft hair
away from my face, and I pray with
grace to continue to breathe, breathe
have I ever truly encountered myself with
the fervor of newfound love, commitment of
starlings in early season migration, a playlist
curated though late night atmospheres of
smoke and solitude, have I ever held myself
gently, with the trust I have gifted men,
whispered in my ear of the years I have
captivated my own heart, granted the beauty of
devotion despite hopeless pain, how much blind
faith I have invested in each dawn
© 2.28.2024 heather brager
