What I Know Poem by Alto Lee Thomas, Jr.

In ways of love, I don't know much -
But what I know, I've learned from you
A heart in love is not one's own,
It beats to all but bleeds for one.
In silence, private paths bemoan,
That angry wounds won't heal alone.

In truth, I have not lived that much
But my life begins and ends with you
We spilled our youth and innocence
Plumed in pride and arrogance
Yet we met upon the midland road
That bridged the gorge from heart to soul

Of ways of joy, I don't know much -
What joy I've known, I've known with you.
For that rare time, our hearts consigned
Your joy and laughter bound to mine
We basked fulfilled from dusk to dawn
Drawn deep within each other's arms.

I've been touched by death, but not that much-
What I fear of such, I fear for you
Though destiny dictates our time
Your needs still plead the same as mine
To fuss and fawn and be obsessed
Until our lives have come to rest.