by Matt Lally

Your smile warms me every time
Our eyes meet through the glass
I see your hands in mine and feel
Soft pressure from your grasp
I study your face, brush your cheek
I've memorized every line
I close my eyes and taste your kiss
And smell your perfumed skin

I often see your shadow
In the corner of my eye
And hear the echo of your voice
In the quiet when I write
Happiness can flicker some
Between the pen and page
But smiles that last are only found
When I look upon your face

The hanging-bellied moon above
Follows me 'til dawn
When oozing mud between my toes
Gets caked on by the sun
But soon it all begins again
The dark and peaceful birth
Removes all shadow from my sight
And cloaks me with blind warmth

Yet still I feel your shadow
When nothing's left to shine
And hear the echo of your voice
In the ringing quiet night
Happiness can flicker some
In half-remembered dreams
But lasting smiles only grace
The confines of your frame

I bring you flowers every spring
They seem to please you still
You look so happy leaning back
That's how I hope you feel
Thanks for all you've given me
Your smile is enough
You comfort me as best you can
From up there on the shelf

I often see your shadow
In the corner of my eye
And hear the echo of your voice
In the quiet when I write
Happiness can flicker some
Between the pen and page
But smiles that last I only find
In frozen time and space