Beneath branches and leaves
we step through foliage
and the sun's great beams
hand in hand together we strode
while sweat accumulates
between our palms
I dare not let go.

Away so far on rolling waves
between ice and snow
but here the sun retreats
so I grasp your memoirs and letters
and pray to feel your warmth
with dreams of you
I dare not let go.

And while you're gasping in pain
fighting and screaming
while bringing life and love
into our vast world
you squeeze my fingers blue
yet it's nothing compared to your pain
I dare not let go.

And now you lie next to me
your skin shows glory in this light
as our child coos against your rising chest
fingers curling weak around mine
a face like yours
and eyes such as mine
I swear, not ever, will I let go.