Alone

alone
physically alone in this world –
frightened as to what tomorrow
may bring for an already
battered and bruise psyche.

alone
moving throughout my day,
from one place to the next –
numb, confused, aware but only just
of the comings and goings around me.

but wait!
what's this?

not alone
your voice is like watered silk
pouring over me, through me.
even though you aren’t there,
i can feel you near.

not alone
your hand clasps mine protectively,
never moving while i deal with
the difficulties, the heartache –
a warmth that guides me on.

so how can that be?
alone, but not alone?

‘though separated by the miles
of rolling highway – each longer
than the one before with its own
story or legend to brag about –
you’re with me

‘though only able to say good night
on a telephone or computer –
cold plastic only warmed by the touch
of electricity or my own hand –
you’re with me

when the nights are long
and my imagination is playing tricks –
making me see shadows as viscous
as half-set strawberry gelatin –
you’re with me

so now the daunting task of
conquering those miles of highway
lies ahead of us – looming large
on a fiery sunset horizon –
unfolding the rest of our tale.