I remember how frightened I was
of life, of new encounters,
of who I was becoming,
what was happening within.
I remember anguish in discovering
the weakness of hungry flesh,
the faithlessness of old friends,
the flaws revealed in my parents.
I remember tears of discontent
when facing my own naked flaws,
consternation at the world’s injustices,
unhappiness amid the pin-pricks of life.
I remember unexpected surges of pride
as I pushed myself to perform more boldly,
of hope as my horizons miraculously expanded,
of amusement at the absurdities noticed in all lives.
I remember when first I saw the exquisite look
of desire recognized in the face of the other,
of feeling passion overtake me,
of committing my affection to another.
first published in Twilight Ending
©1997 Bonnie Manion