In the background
as I write
I always hear a song
Ringing clear
and ringing true
my wishes to belong

The words composed
in beats of time
with room for me to breathe
Awaiting  
as the meaning sings
for voices to retrieve

In the background
as I write
where letters dance with glee
A minstrel hides
between the lines
my spirit his to free

I’d gladly trade
these phrases inked
for one unfinished tune
To sing upon
the coming wind
—and float my heart’s balloon

(Villanova University: May, 2022)