Fragile

I. Glowing warmth exudes from fingertips,
Your smile sends radiance beaming across
The gulf of inches between our beating hearts.

The tiny gulf is extinguished as our lips
Touch, and unity is joy, distance no loss.
We softly join, one moment safe, then part.

II. But since our leaving I have stood apart
From all; aloof, I shrink into my throbbing skin.
Away you strangers, venture not near nor look into my eyes.

What is this that causes me to start
When a body brushes past and air is thin?
No shield for me; turn your head and pass me by.

III. These strangers are not you, yet power lies
In closing of distance to look into my soul
And God forbid they pierce the flimsy veil.

The sacred wisp that deep within me tries
To wrap itself in mystery, fears one may control,
Grasp, tear, shred, manipulate, betray, impale.

IV. To you alone I trust this glimpse, so fail
You not my vulnerable and tender being.
Guard it; and that I may know, show yours as well.

Let my trembling hands hold a thing as frail
And gaze long deep with tearful eyes, loving, seeing,
Your perfect flaws. Pull me close, kiss me, secrets tell.