“Approach” by Julia Gray Hines

Betty O’Hearn
SHARED SPACE
after “Approach” by Julia Gray Hines

As I approach you, expectation surrounds.
You sense me. Your silent vowels summon
me as your changing colors sink into my soul.

People who live underneath offer their
esteem giving you pleasure summoning
them with your tones.

My desire is to crawl up into you so I
can look at your beating heart. You will
keep me safe as we become one.

Now, part of us as we celebrate seventy,
the party fills the room. Sometimes you
are ignored. Still, you participate in our
shared existence.