US AT THE CABIN

Just us at the cabin
was the first time I ever
felt silent with a man,
calm with a man,
unafraid and wholly present.

Just us at the cabin flaming marshmallows
and talking one another hoarse in the dark
so quiet (we put the crickets to sleep with our rambling);
just us playing board-games and chopping salad
like old pros, was the first time I ever
didn't want to look for more.

That's rare, my friend. Rare like the lamb-chops weren't
when I got distracted, laughing,
and left them on the grill;
Rare like your smile or your voice on my phone,
Rare like my pleasure, knowing you.

Happy Valentine's day, Bernie..