a small wish

In the midst of a pleasant conversation, it occurred to me that
Things were devolving into a battle of wits.
As a proponent of disarmament, I became quiet.
Stopping to listen, I was not ashamed.
My aim is not to impress, or even to be remarkable.
It is simply to be.
And to allow you to be who you are
In my presence.

Andy

Everything seems crude in comparison to you.

You don't require pageantry

Or

Tasteless sprays of flowers.

No color is quite right

And in your jeans and t-shirt,

You make the rest of us look vulgar.

Language is suddenly insufficient

Compared to your quiet dignity,

And words take on new meaning

As I discover that I'd never payed much attention before now.

Not enough attention, perhaps.

Understated,

Confident and secure in your identity,

You were placid and reassuring.

Nothing is the same without you.