five minutes, at least

First minute is for holding
for palms and chins and tiptoes
for nerves and hearts and eyes and nose
For hello, my friend, I'm here.

Second minute is for breathing
for slowing and believing
for closing this and opening that
For calm, my friend, I'm here.

Third minute is for peace
for "I just enjoy holding you"
and warm-and-safe-and-happy
For here, my friend, I'm here.

Fourth minute is for laughter
for "I love you so much it's not even funny"
except it is, it is, it is
For joy, my friend, I'm here.

Fifth minute is for quiet
for the solemn realization
the reminder to ourselves that all things end
For you, my friend, I'm here.