Before I Formed You, I Knew You.

A blast of water was sent
Down your painted lips
And caught below
By tissues taped,
Dutifully changed
By a child much like you.

I have heard
There are cracks in the earth
And a floor of glass
Where we can stand
As if suspended
And be small together;
Although, I will be big enough.

There are many books
Preserving images
Of fascinating people
Waving
Clasping
Gesturing
With hands like yours
And your grandmother's
And mine.

There are lessons
Unnecessary to learn
Penance already paid.

Yet I simply cannot force you
To make the journey
From the wood floor
Where I brushed your plastic strands
Or the edge of a world wonder,

I cannot coerce you to exist
So that you may sleep against my chest
Or have my father's eyes,

Yet, before I formed you,
I knew you,

And our estrangement
Is often more than I can bear.