A poem for Alan Phillips, my husband.

I watched the tendrils of vaporous smoke
escape from your nostrils, as the sun broke

Fog dissipating, horizon is clear
holding your hand in the early morn chill

I saw the ash fall to the hard concrete
reddish glow did blaze then fell near my feet

Seeing the optimism in your eyes
I took off my mask, unveiled my disguise

My own eyes mirrored your furious light
the cigarette dropped, you grasped me with might

Your lips found mine, taste of orange sunshine
thawing my frigid heart just this one time

So far it's been six years, I did unfold
I'll never regret that day in the cold

Alan thank you for communing with me
for reaching in for seeing past the mask

For finding me, for loving me, for acceptance at last

I love you

Janet Caldwell 9-6-08