At bay

I came back to a moment of laughter and found you seated next to me. And all I could say is a whisper of a smile.

Just one tone that only silence is louder than airplanes. Truly I felt no need to let the day be explored. I took my hand, held it toward your face then asked.

Would you hug me? Just a slight tilt to my head and I inquire to the hope that a nod responds. A bit of kindness that springs inside of you, me as we dare to hold onto a moment of smiles.

Perhaps the dare was inviting enough or possibly dreamy enough. Whichever way the might was held, a goodness was embraced.

And as the dance of joy seeps in, I just squeeze tighter. Clinging. Momentarily, though. For now the distance is necessary.

And as I lean away, I smile again. Grateful you stepped into the lighted path of mine. Gracefully I slide into a chair. Exasperated I could not do more.

Only the heart can hold long enough at bay, tears. So the mind clears the emotions and the spirit gives thanks. Just one moment.

I take my sway towards the hall, turning back long enough to say thank you. All that was given was delightful. 

And as I see the dimming of your face, I recall a time when just one hug meant the world to me.

Now I am glad that to just be held. Stranger to stranger. A smile to no recognition.

Grateful.