To My Valentine - 2017

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Love can be expressed when feelings fade:
The bristle of the hairbrush stroking it straight,
Smoothing the bedcovers not quite right
Or puffing the pillow if the head won't rest;
Offering mushy peas and puréed carrots
Swirling in gravy around two scoops of mash;
A teaspoon filled with sweet paracetamol,
Then a wipe of the lips that once kissed mine.
Positioning Suzy in case she's needed
And offering the hand that may want to be held
As though we were the only ones left
On an ageing planet emptied of others.

At least I'm here - your Valentine, committed
By vows that transcend the decline of years.


February 2017