Palette Portrait

So many times
           I slept by your side
woke before you
           and lay there
admiring the beauty
           you embody
the softness of your breath
           your lips pursed
the calm assurance
           with which you dreamt
your cares away
           I longed for you to wake
but waited patiently
           until your eyelids
began to flicker
           and finally opened
and welcomed me
           with a smile
into your heart
           my love

John Lyons