In Retrospect

 

 

 

                         There was a time when I was alone

                         a window shed it yellow light

                         I was outside looking in

 

 

                         You could not hide the built-in risk

                         the uneasy trust

                         once more perhaps misplaced

                         pick up the challenge  you said

                         I cannot linger

                         the door was open either way

 

 

                         (There was a chill wind

                         outside the door

                         you were on someone else's arm

                         do I know you?  have we met before?)

 

 

                         But you kept your promise

                         the window glows in the dusk for me

                         I need not stand outside alone

 

 

 

                                                      Jack Mashman

                                                      Rev. 1992