Eileen Manassian Poet Free verse

Before I Knew You

This evening, after faculty orientation, the president
of the university bumped into me on the way to his office.
He looked at me and smiled as he came closer.
“Just think, there was a time I didn't know you.”

I stood there…at a loss for words
What did he mean?
Was this cultural barrier going to make
This difficult for me to understand?
“Yes, there was a time I didn't know you either,
but I do now! I’m glad.”

He smiled….
A smile that said it all.
“Yes, think of life…Before you meet people, you don’t
know they exist, and then…you get to know them.”

I smiled, returning the warmth in his eyes.
“You have the heart of a poet. I understand you.
Glad to know you.”

I was left to wonder….at the real meaning of his words.
Have I made his life more pleasant...more beautiful?
Have I been a source of inspiration...of encouragement?

The time before I knew you…
Tell me, what was THAT like?

Eileen Manassian Ghali

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Poet Destroyer A September 19, 2013 at 8:55 AM stopping by here to read this one again... The first time I was sneaking in from my job. Love the beauty, and the simple way your love tingles, with encouragement. a nice little flirtatious imagery... always looking forward in stopping by and feeling your warmth... always~ Linda

Richard D Seal September 18, 2013 at 5:49 PM Well, If I knew then what I know now lol. We never what or who is coming next do we? Take care, Richard

Andrea Dietrich September 17, 2013 at 11:30 PM haha, I LOVE your ending. It does take you by surprise when they say something like that. Exactly it makes you wonder WHAT did you think BEFORE? I really enjoyed this. You are a special lady.

Chris Boskovski September 17, 2013 at 10:08 PM I feel you in this write right here Eileen! I remember when I first laid eyes on my first crush! My God, My heart raced I shook with nervousness, I was at a loss for words as well. Till I lost her to another! I'll never forget her though! What a lovely poem Eileen! I nearly shed a tear for I thought of myself for a moment! Great peom Eileen! signed your fellow poet and friend! Christopher Boskovski!! xoxoxo! :) hugs and kisses for you Eileen!

Seren Roberts September 17, 2013 at 9:46 PM Eileen what a wonderful expression, it says it all....Seren

Poet Destroyer A September 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM Hello Lovely Eileen,...I'll be right back...Linda

Delysia Hendricks September 17, 2013 at 6:47 PM You've answered your own questions, girlfriend. Yes, you are beautiful and a great source of inspiration. Need I say more? As far as poetry goes, another cracker, fave poetess. Hugs to you, Eileen. Licia :-)

Richard Lamoureux September 17, 2013 at 5:43 PM Strange how it can feel like you have known someone for a lifetime. Perhaps because I have read so many of your words I feel connected. Perhaps because you have taken an interest in me and my words. Whatever the reason I feel priveledged to know you and call you friend. Not a come on as you know I am dedicated to my sweetie, just a note of appreciation.

Poet Tacito September 17, 2013 at 3:08 PM Massively thought-provoking. A symbol of a decent humanity valuing another. This was a stunning reflection. Oh, how we all should value each other this way... Eileen Manassian September 17, 2013 at 3:12 PM Isn't it sweet, though. He isn't one given to many words..A sweet man from Finland. I enjoy having him in my Bible study group...He is a learned man! I think his Ph.D is in theology or something....I do value his leadership at the university and though I put him on the spot a time or two tonight on decisions made, he knows I'm honest with him. I also commend when necessary. Yes...I was touched! :) Thanks for this lovely post!

Liam Mcdaid September 17, 2013 at 2:44 PM powerful piece of writing excellent would be the words Eileen Manassian September 17, 2013 at 2:46 PM Liam....thanks for your continued visits. :) I appreciate hearing your thoughts on my work!