The words flow. I cannot stop them. You close my lips, but still, they come.

You cry, because the words hurt so much. But I cannot stop them. You learn, because the words teach. You grow, because the words nourish.

You die, because the words kill. I cry, but I cannot stop the words.

I felt for you in the darkness. I felt for you in the night.

I had forgotten what it felt to hold you. I held you close. I heard your heartbeat, your breathing.

'You are so perfect.' I whispered. You did not answer.

Then, with a jolt, I realized. There was no heartbeat, there was no breathing. And then, I died.

You want me to hold you. You want me to see you. But what can I do but scream at the unknown who took my sight.

I'll never see the locks I run my fingers through. I'll never see your lips move as you say, 'I love you.' I'll never know what you look like, but I am content; I have you.

You tell me what green looks like, what flavors a rainbow is made of. You hold me when I cry for want to see you. You see for me.

What have I done that you hate me so? Why do you aim your fiery rage at me? I help you understand the world around you. I calm you when you rant. Perhaps you want me to leave you. Perhaps you don't want the fire stopped. I shall comply. Fare thee well.

By Angella Hofer