Knowing how
to distance
oneself
is a great living art
proximity suffocates
relationships fall apart--

people are self-seeking
their needs and moods oscillate
how gratifying
it is to be with my Labrador
such joy and warmth we celebrate!

I don't know

The time I whispered
"Mascara on your cheek"

I knew I loved you.

You fished mirror, tissue
And fixed

And thanked with such
Sweet smile and

I knew you loved

Reflection in glass

To follow that
Splash

Into the
Mirrored pond-

To follow the

Shallow frog

To freedom!