all my dreams

and some I never dreamed

and the hopes

the ones I couldn't hope
that had no hope.

the whole experience took me by surprise.

and your gentleness

but I do not watch you

with the lust of adolescence

nor do I stare

at the beauty which culture recognizes as profound

humanity and compassion

who could be

anything she wanted to be

and for your friendship and love,

to be in your thoughts

I would share all that I am

and touch you
hold you in my thoughts

and more than this

I feel certain feelings

no one ever made me happier than you

your readiness to listen

and talk far into the night

no one offered me more adventure

and gentleness

and freedom

all I know is that truth is worth the risk
that love does exist

and that a day or a night with you
was worth the pain
of your departure.

and that the feelings shared

which began so shyly

so very cautiously

could last forever

and why feel crippled

by the distance between us

cared as much
gave as much
asked as little

I can't replace your eyes

your smile

or the sheer joy of your presence

as much as anyone in the world

has ever cared

because I finally understand.