An indelible mark

There are traces of you
            in every aspect of my life
practices of yours
            that I’ve adopted
unconsciously

You’re there
            in the rhythms of my day
there at the window
            in Horsely Down
in Shad Thames
            waving me goodbye

I taught you to observe
            whether the clocks
in public places
            were working or not

You taught me
            so much more
that love is gentle
            and timeless
and that it collects
            no dust

You have left an indelible mark
            on my flesh and blood
You are there
            in all my breath
in every thought
            and word and deed

John Lyons