I Am Satisfied…

There are times, when I feel unabashed joy,
I think of those who I love and care for.
I like these feelings as it feels like truth. Like home.
Today, walking home from the gardens, I begin crafting a poem
And suddenly think, “UltimateIy, this fighting has to stop”

I like this truth. The presence that comes with joy.
There was Carnation Day at St. Mary’s High School
You could advance order a carnation for your sweetie.
And have it delivered during C period.
Even then, I wouldn’t do just one.

At minimum it was 10.
Every girl I had feelings for were fair game.
Even Susy Chapman, the first girl who broke my heart.
Then, too, I thought it absurd
To limit one’s love to just one.

Knowing this, I would stand in front of you nakedly
And find ways to express the many degrees of my love.
It doesn’t matter whether you are a woman or a man
I ask for nothing in return
Because, already, I am satisfied.

I would cry in front of you,
Hold you in my arms when you are in your sorrow,
Rub the back of my hand against your cheek.
I don’t care what you’d give me in return.
Because, thoroughly, I am satisfied.

I would tell you how much you matter to me.
Smile at you, knowing my eyes are sparkling,
Just because I am standing in your presence.
Do nothing. Just be. Or walk away.
Because, lovingly, I am satisfied.

I find joy in knowing that, because you are, I am.
That we are all living lives of elegance and grace.
I know that love doubles down on itself eternally
And, knowing this…

I am satisfied.