divide

i find i am emptily glad
this sea that separates, annihilates
a hope of a chance.
for if you were here--
no gloved, clasped hands
no cold kisses, no contrived mistletoe
free to sink my sorrows in drink and
the peace your absence brings which
is anything but the peace
you breathed into my life and heart
in secret coves and setting suns.
if eden be earthly--
your hair in the salt breeze
sun resting on our upturned cheeks
your confiding hand
and clear gaze.
i understand the pain of the fall
the ultimate descent
a grace so holy
never to be tasted again.