Now

Now

you are with me 

always

In days 

when I knew 

you were safe

at home

I didn’t see you

in every shadow 

as the sun played 

with the leaves

I never wondered

if that bird song 

was really you 

singing me 

your new 

secrets 

or if the 

crashing waves

had become 

your chance 

to shout

or if the 

young tree 

near the lake 

was you 

reaching your arms 

to a sun that seems brighter 

now that you shine with it.

Now 

begins our next 

great adventure

alone together

You’ll follow me 

in my shadow

and be the breeze 

that combs my hair 

and as you become 

the sum of your dreams

we will dance and play 

inside the private 

reverie of mine.

Now

you are with me 

always.

for Audrey

in memory of Valerie

Ken Owen
Van Niddy Press   March 2018