It is in the absence of your presence that I stumble along.

How could I have taken you so for granted?

My constant.

My North Star you always guided me home.

Now I am so far from you here and I can't escape the gratitude

You were simply there.

A form of comfort that loomed beside me and brought warmth while dispelling my fear.

How could you not know?

When every encounter with you brought a smile to my face?

Every moment was so precious.

It was enough to have you stand beside me, in the warmth and strength of heart.

Like a lion you protected mine.

Now, with skills you taught I stand alone protecting it.

And I miss the shield your love provided. I miss your face.

And I am sorry, not that I told you but that in telling you I changed everything.

The dynamic changed when I spoke, and everything silent that was taken for granted suddenly came crashing like an elephant into the room.

But you are not a china shop and this is not insurmountable.

I am not a bull.

Time has passed and will continue to do so. And you look at me with eyes that sees this for all it is and you say "Another lifetime."

I smile, "Yes, Love, another Lifetime."

~ for TJB (August 30th, 2013)