I used to hold my thumb
Just beneath your nose
To feel your soft, warm breath
Going in
Going out.
Place my palm on your belly
Watch it moving subtly up
Then down again.
I would shoot up in the night
Perform this routine
With you right next to me.
Now I gently turn the knob
Open the old, creaking door
Knowing the noise won’t wake you.
I do this most every night
Watch your peaceful face
So big in your big bed.
Analyze your flushed, full cheeks
See the sheet rise, then lower
With your every breath.
You may never know
Just how precious you are
To me.
It is a quiet & brief moment
Thank you, God
Thank you.


