Clowns
We were together
when we saw her
with her husband
on the old bench.
And her withered hand
held his
and her puckered lips moved
but could not speak
as tears flowed
from her
sagging eyes.

And I looked atyou, in your youth and beauty,
and you looked at me,
both of us hoping
that in the others'
eyes
would be the key
to unlocking this
Mystery.

And I wished
my face was white,
and my voice was gone
so the love would flow
from my youth and energy
and revive her in her
age and tiredness.

And then,
then,
I would deserve
your love.