Sample Nights

Sample Nights

Eric Kahn

I have stood still in the pouring rain

Felt the soles of my feet

Entangled within the swell,

Through the simmering mist my eyes do not lie

And I can see your simple figure

With vast sympathies I will grace your Earth.

Hands held open with songs of distant treasures

Songs of still-folded promises,

Just to see you smile one more time

I would trade this all away.

In memories from leather saddles

I would end your suffering.

I’ve seen the trees cry at your feet

Knowing they could never be as beautiful,

As I watched from the stands above

I was honored to see you.

Holding your shield up high

That was the day

As quickly as the noontide follows

I’ll set sail down the river,

Such a quest as life-long merit

I would never have asked for anyone else.