A Slowing River Still Runs Deep

All I did was blink and suddenly frail and forgetful had stolen the vibrancy I’d taken for granted. Your look still bears that familiar smile which sparks an ebbing life and brightens dimming eyes. But when you think no one’s watching, I am… as this consumptive malaise pervades your sagging face and spirits you off for poppy naps, the flickering star-light fades, I watch your mouth turn down In that soft dreamtime curve and my heart cries the river that floats you on eddies of timeless sleep I know a day will come our connection will be broken your star gaze will not return and I’ll cry a new empty ocean. But until then, in sleep’s folded caress a slow river runs calm, its watery fingers polish the unforgettable shine on the touchstone of my love, hoping its undying spark reawakens you.