I Wish That You Could Watch Me Poem by Patti Masterman

I wish that you could watch me
Sacrifice everything for you;
Step up, to that guillotine blade
My bearing proud; head up, eyes brave
And unashamed, to take your place
Exchange my beating heart, for yours
Prove your existence more worthy
By giving up my own for it

I could die happily then, with your grateful
Silent tears, yearning to thank
To shake my hand; just one kiss,
My forlorn cheek, just before-
Instead of indifference and dispassion
You know, now that I think, I might choose
To save myself instead; if we're all just in it
For our own edification only

I'll save my blood for someone
Who's not too damaged, to love back;
Even hopelessly and foolishly,
Wildly and vicariously:
Why spill blood carelessly;
Why choose disinterested love,
Why should disdain always succeed
Where tenderness has already died from neglect?