BEFORE THE BED OPENS

Between wanting to curl up on the couch
and imagining warm water running across my back,
I wish the imaginary arms around my waist were real.
I wish the figure standing behind me
with its chest pressed against me
and its arms holding me close... were real.

***

Between the rows of trees
and beneath the shining stars,
the pavement of the sidewalk
says I'm lonely,
and so do I.
Yet,
I still walk the park alone.
Copyright ©2003 Ashi Shadow, 10/18/03 "before the bed opens" is just "before going to bed"