In Japanese, there is a concept of "Ma"
the silence in between claps,
the moment that separates lightning from thunder
its a pause with a purpose
silent for a reason
a moment to break away from chaos

you exist in the moments between big events
a text, a hug, a "you'll be okay"
always there, never far, but never pushing
gentle in the way you ease fears,
yet never fearing to show your love

you exist in the smell of old paint and inks
books worn with love and late-night tears
old lady sweaters that you make look stylish
and cat pictures I can show my boss

you adapt like the tide
push and pull and everything in between
carrying people with you, so gently
a soothing balm for the tired soul

songbirds have nothing on you.