If I Cannot Be... Poem by Eric Cockrell

if i cannot be
the stars in your blackest sky;
let me be the darkness itself,
as cupped hands,
holding the broth of light
for you to lap!

if i cannot be
the fire that warms;
let me be the howling cold,
and walk away.

if i cannot be
the flesh that enters your flesh;
let me be the absence,
and the hollow,
that only longing can fill.

if i cannot be
the dreams that lullaby;
let me be the wanting,
the needing, that leaves you
sleepless and turning.

if i cannot be
the path you walk;
let me be the soles of your shoes,
and the ground beneath.

if i cannot be,
the storm and the rain;
let me be the faint hint of lightning,
you thought you almost saw!