Seeing Me Leave

Stained glass glances and sleepy blinks, 

I want to paint across the sky the color of your eyes

and live in the gentle morning light you cast. 

Beautiful is the way you look at me,

beautiful is the reflection your eyes show of me,

a girl incapable of not loving you.

Could you ever understand why I’ve left?

A song from the birds and a window seat,

I want to perceive nature the way in which you’re able

and find a thrill in the flight of a sparrow. 

In watching the world you find such delight;

while watching you, I plant a kiss on your cheek,

the perfect landing spot for my affections.

Do you know how often I think of you?

Crowded room but never straying too far,

I meet your eyes and by you I feel chosen;

much like the way I chose you all those moons ago.

But I left our home and the home I have in you,

I left and had the nerve to find a home someplace else,

a place I can never take you.

Would you believe me if I said I miss you?

Growing up and playing time’s game,

I’ve realized your age keeps you from hearing the birds

and my voice as I call you when I get home from college.

But I know you’re glad to see me by the light in your eyes,

though I worry you think I’ve abandoned you,

my dear. My childhood best friend. My cat.

I wish you could understand why I’ve left.

Winter 2022