Sassafras Escape

( A poem for Fotoula )

In spring sunlight

Some trees lit like fire

Moist foliage glistens

Gardens awaken

Locals sit outside

Shielded by tea-house wall

Exposing pale skin

To the light

Unstitching last winter treads

We strolled from one gallery

To another

Enticed by artisans creations

The slower we walk – I thought

The longer we will walk together

I loved floral long sleeved dress

Hope you didn’t think it’s to young

For my years

You admired colourful carved elephants

Buy one, they bring luck – you said

Later in secluded corner

I’ve noticed how shine fades

From your blue eyes

Mind absent

Thoughts drifting through walls

Towards healing corridors

And I believe there is no limit

To human endurance

In order to heal,

In order to survive

But today, all I can do is

Wrap my arms around you

Lighten up your fears

Knowing you’ll face with courage

For what is to come

Tell you it will be alright –

Brave one

One day when you conquer the storm

Faith gives us a chance

We will hold tight

Two colourful elephants

And sit … sit in the sun again …

(C) Dinka Bednjacic

6. 10. 2019