it is with deepest regret
that i don't have something better
to tell you about love

about being a sugar cube
you stir into a cup of coffee
to make it less bitter

its never worked that way for me
and I've always had to think

of something tired and stripped
of all its varnish  and dignity

something I've already asked
way too much of and yet
is still there for me  
night after night

when my voice  and words
have long since failed

@ 2018  Whit Howland