I would offer you comfort

let it flow down your windows but not as sad tears

blur the harsh landscape with reminders of kindness

hold the rhythm of the drops steady as your heart beat

and know you are the world

they threw their rusted hearts together

ignored the years piled beneath

mere kindling for their funeral pyre

should some thought’s train spark that heat

and left them there as testament

to witness for anyone who cares to see

time matters not for such intersect

this remains through alchemical change

love abides eternally

speak. don’t speak.

pay attention nevertheless.

choose your words with care.

let your silence be kind.

these days the air itself seems harsh

as if daring one to breathe.

do not make your presence

a sharp rock in the way.

we stumble enough on our own.

if I hold in my palm the dancing flame

lit from all the kind candles of love

silhouette it against the darkened sky

will you see and take notice

I’ve seen this light shine in your eyes

felt its warmth in the kindness of your smile

caught its flicker to hold in the night

when cold can slip in under the door

and because I too have been alone

been a stranger hungry and ill

I raise this illumination high as I can

for anyone for everyone for all in need

lowering clouds grey as her distant eyes

barren trees crooked as her aged hands

far ridges flinty as her hard smile

but there, there-look

a hidden trail that curves and winds

opens to such expansive view

still not as vast as her loving heart

horses on the trail

fairy queen over the fountain

wolves in every corner

statuary figure as mystery

better wonders than these

are scattered throughout town

greetings for stranger and resident alike

flashes of kindness that warm in these chill times

friendship and care shining brighter

than even the light in the verdigris trees

making true in this day the signature signs of love

warm silence and receptive space

these translate across lines

everyone wants to be heard

especially those hoarse from shouting

here a table with a couple of chairs

a pot of tea and cups to be filled

please sit, all are welcome

here is comfort . raise it

spoon to your mouth

sweetness like that of wild honey

shell to your ear

whispers of stories you loved as child

flower to your nose

mingled aromas from those you’ve held dear

hand to your heart

warm like love itself (and you are loved)

hold it gently and let it be

forever balm to ease your sorrows