The words I wrote before
were mean spirited
vile
and yet completely true.

Someone once told me,
"There are no wrong emotions,"
one fo the many lessons I've taken
to my spirit.

I never thanked you,
you're the one who
       turned my life on a more spiritual path
       taught me that there are others like me in the world
       & loved me for being me, something few folks do.

Being part of the gasoline
that fueled the burning of our bridges
is one of two things I shall regret
in this lifetime.
Though I am hopeful other lives
in the future smoke
will give us a chance to reconnect.

I'm proud of our times together,
saddened our hang ups hung us.

There's always going to be a place
you occupy in my brain
whether you want to be there or not.
Your poetry still moves me.

I can't forget you.
But, that doesn't mean
you don't have to.