We convince ourselves
it isn't sadness
for a long, long time.

and it is an easy mistake.


It is also okay.
The first time you see it
just under your skin
To really see
and to feel it,
you are healing.

Kiss your own hand
Hold it against your own face
Back of hand to forehead
Palm to full of cheek
And breathe so deep
It cracks your spine
From the years of
progressively
shallower
breathing
Protecting our idea
your and my idea
of perfect form
(Full-chested,
waistless)
No
Place your hands on your tummy
beautiful ripe belly
and breathe into yourself
man woman
human
Connect to you,
(us it I we now)

You will find that substance
sustenance
solace
life,
that blossom
unfurling
nature
of your nature
in your touch

The glimpse of reason,
I have seen it.
It is the fundamental trust.