be as brave as you are bold
                                              he says,

i didn't mean to
                                             drag
                                             you
                                             through the mud.

and i wish i could have come bearing hugs.
                                                           ­               i say,


                                              the universe is always benevolent
                                              so i shall put another notch in my belt
                                              take another step

                                              find another heart that feels something real.