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∴

gratitude
comes differently, now.

where once i may have given thanks
for an easy passage
or undeserved bounty,

i can look back
on hard gates
and narrow passages
like fond friends
who stripped me of the needless,
that i would –

might be able to –

enter
precious-er places
therein.

 

satisfaction
comes thusly simpler:

i need no jewel about this wrist –
no bauble to please me upon it –
for look how the soft cuff
of a thick, white robe
falls weighted,
like a lock of hair,
upon the back of my hand.

it is decadent,
and full of love,
to notice these things.

 

the simple acts
of comfort at night
and memory of day

fill

fill

fill me.

∴

 

 

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