To Be Determined

but you were smiling

I tied a bright piece of ribbon in your hair, though I am sure it was
no comfort. what with the rain and the
mud stuck to the heels of every pair of boots you owned.

but it comforted me, somewhat. and the comfort did not stop for
many days. neither did the rain.

it was persistent, as was I, in hoping that if we
worked hard enough the world would
alter itself under our pressured thumbs.

once. or perhaps twice, I gave myself a nosebleed
trying to make it so.

where were the clear mornings? the cheeks winter-red from
laughter, the apple trees, the spiny wildflowers,
another song sung between the gap in your teeth.

I can't know for certain what the rain was searching for.

but I saw you and your little piece of sunshine
bobbing outside between storms.

and if you noticed the grey skies, I could not tell.
and if you noticed when the ribbon snagged and fell,
I could not say. but you were smiling.

I think the sky and I both breathed a little easier.