I will not burn you slowly;

roast your tranquil soul

over selfish coals.

I will not make my occupation

the secret erosion of your dreams,

nor withhold blessed forgiving.

I will never scale a summit

beyond return, or erect walls

of implacable indifference.

I will not hesitate to brush your

tasseled hair, scent your bath,

light and stoke the fire.

And should your bright

and gracious spirit

fall before mine,

I will not fail

to dust your ashes

upon the grateful earth.