For Boxer

I. a terrible day

The day you died
it was a terrible day in the universe.
Children gunned down in the streets
villages drowned in floods raging
pain like yours coursed through cities, lakes, and trees.
I kissed and held you crying
to move ancient Gods
to bring you back to me.
The day you died
it was a terrible day in the universe

The day you died
it was a beautiful day in the universe.
The sky was clear as your eyes
on his branch a robin sang
to chimes ringing gently in the breeze.
Your final home glowed in the setting sun
and the radio was playing Barber's Adagio
as I tried to let you go ...
The day you died
it was a beautiful day in the universe.

The day you died
it was a terrible day in the universe
somehow made beautiful
because of you.

II. in-difference

Multitudes pass by
How could they fail to notice
my tear-tattooed eyes

III. kiss of life

With each breath I willed
my life to pass into you
but all your lungs were filled with
was just air