Sleep
The Universe of Us
A Poem
If I wake before you I might be worlds away Dangling in the universe next door Discerning the language of Robins Sparrows, lilacs and lizards Trimming the claws of crows Listening with patient attention And deep affection I should reserve for you
But you’re still sleeping You need your rest, I know And to that end I cannot compete I will wait for your Kiss Sometimes a little cold But mainly sweet
If you wake before me Nudge me Tickle my ear Make me some coffee Save me a few secrets Brewing inside you Distilling in your imagination Porous feeling fragments Your meandering journey On your way down The stairs to the couch
If I wake before you Please know that I’ll be gone But not for long I’ve taken a short trip around The block to find The Universe of us
Grace notes: I dedicate this to my wife who, in her words, is an ‘elite’ sleeper. Unlike me who is lucky to earn six hours a night. Oh I pine for the days when I could sleep, wake up, then simply turn over and melt into my bed and slumber delicously for another hour. Oh well!
© Scott Zosel (2023 All Rights Reserved)
