I hide it from you
   This thing
      Wrap it in tin foil
      Tuck it in a matchbox
      Put it on the highest closet shelf
         Under a pile of never-worn sweaters

I keep it from you
   This thing
      That bounds like an unleashed puppy
      That dances like a dust mote
      That makes me feel younger than I am
         Like I should pass you notes
            (check one yes no)
            And dot my i's with tiny graphite hearts

I take it from you
   All of it
      The calm in your arms
      The dearness of your tired eyes
      And your grief
         That subtle sag of your shoulders
      If I could
   I would take it
And carry it for you.