Dance of Redemption

For Patty--Valentine’ Day, 2004

Light, life, love, they dance
Spurred by time’s gentle nudging
Memories lead, reality follows
Hearts strive to reign supreme
Resurfacing?
Sheen of myth dares tarnish
As wealth’s guardians wreak havoc
I shared rank, you captains of industry
Or so my mind betrayed
(betrays—dare not think this)
A mere marionette, no more
Tangled threads, arthritic hands
Dance as you may on hobbled legs
Collapse
Sinking, resurfacing? No
A gasp
Life’s breath invades, yes
Reawakening?
One—but one—may paint redemption
Canvas of a life fresh crafted
I breathe of your air, your essence
And taste a promise
Love, this waltz
May not conquer, all, in truth
But my life
My truth
Is you, as for I
A choice to both lead and follow