The Ripe Fruit In Paradise... Poem by RIC BASTASA

that part that you are holding
the ripe fruit in paradise
is so delicious, i cannot imagine
how can it be a source
of discord? all of us can eat it
we can share it, it is too many to
be consumed
i want to hold it and give it
all the compassion that it needs
the tenderness
the kindness of my spirit
this part of me
that understands you
now, in submission to love,
i let you touch it
and caress it,
to make it a part of us.