fall in love
with a man
who has time for you
and is capable of
loving you
back

fall in love with a man with arms like
beacons in the night
that promise safe harbor
with eyes that glint with
mirth and optimism
with hands that cannot
get enough of you
with a voice that soothes
with sturdy roots
and a healthy relationship
with his mother
with a man who understands pain
and understands that it doesn't last forever
and understands that joy is the same
who cherishes the tiny beautiful things
fall in love with a man who is thankful
and makes you laugh
that makes you feel welcome
that has stories to tell
and who listens to yours

flowed over me
like honey
sweet
and slow
and golden
I could feel it in the
tips of your fingers
gliding across my bottom lip
your hands
running through my hair
caressing my thighs
tracing the contours of my palms
your lips
leaving goosebump trails
on my neck and collarbone
kissing the freckles
dusting the tops of my shoulders
your voice
humming in approval
of my skin in the lamplight
in your eyes
smiling at me across the table
I have never felt so
beautiful
in my life

I must remember what it's like
in case I find it again

many times;
left freckles scattered across my skin.
The sun has kissed me more times than you have,
but just barely.

night falls
the birds have ceased singing
and you
are gone
flown away in search of more hospitable climes
leaving echoing silence
in your wake

I will not wait
for you to
decide
that I am worth
your friendship.

I will not hang
my hopes
on a text message
that may never come.

I have better things to do.

I don't want to fall asleep
only to wake
to another day
without you in it